Frank Walter Bell

Frank Walter Bell known to many as “Butch,” was born on May 2, 1947 in Long Branch, New Jersey and entered into eternal rest on March 7, 2023.  He was predeceased by his mother, Rose Carty Bell, and father, Hilrey Walter Bell.  Left to mourn is his sister, Ethel “Winnie” Bell, niece, Tiffany Patrick (Brian), great nieces, Korri Blue and Kamryn Patrick, great nephew, Brian “Deuce” Patrick, uncle, Hubert “Cubie” Carty, and a host of family and friends. 

Frank graduated from Perth Amboy High School in 1965.  He attended Virginia Union University from 1965 to 1967.  In 1967, he joined the United States Army where he served as a member of the Army Special Forces, which is an elite, versatile army unit made up highly-trained professionals commonly known as the legendary ‘Green Berets.’ While serving in the Vietnam War, he received a National Defense Service Medal, M14 Sharpshooter Badge, M-16 Expert Badge, .45 Caliber Pistol Marksman Badge and Parachutists Badge. He was honorably discharged on September 1, 1973.

Upon leaving the army, Frank pursued his passion for photography.  Frank attended the Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, California and graduated in April 1974. Upon graduation, Frank worked as a cameraman for WWOR Channel 9 News in New York City, which led him to work for another New York-based news broadcast, WABC Channel 7 Eyewitness News, until his retirement in 2014. Frank worked for a total of 33 years with WABC 7, where he was well loved by his colleagues.  It was stated by a colleague, “We call Frank the Ambassador of Good Will.  He would always buy a card for everyone to sign when a crew member was sick or on medical leave. He was such a kind and wonderful man. Heaven has certainly gained a special angel.”

In his spare time, Frank would often take photographs of family members.  Some of these photos became prize winning portraits. Frank was also an avid pool player, tennis player, skier and golfer. He loved to spend time teaching family members and children in Perth Amboy how to play tennis and golf.  He was a good athlete who loved to compete with the best.

Frank had a tremendous generous heart.  His greatest joy was seeing you smile as he handed you a gift. Whether it was a jacket, computer, tennis shoes or a ticket to a Knicks game he enjoyed providing a piece of positivity and encouragement. He was a humble and kind man, who stood tall with personality and character.     

Frank’s love extended well beyond his immediate family.  He treated many people around him like a brother or sister and their children like they were his very own. With his passing, a brilliant light has been extinguished.  Oh, how we were blessed by your presence!  We will miss you Butch, until we meet again.

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