Pitkin Gross “Pit” Bell, 87, of Harleyville died peacefully at home on July 23, 2010. Pitkin, son of the late Holcomb M. Bell and Claudia Campbell Bell, was born September 18, 1922 at the family home in The Bend section of Harleyville.
A 1943 graduate of the University of South Carolina with a degree in journalism, Pitkin worked for the Charlotte Observer until a call from his great aunt, Laura “Tab” Bell, compelled him to return home to operate the family farm while his brothers served in WWII.
After his brothers’ return, Pitkin chose to remain a farmer. This choice allowed him to find the love of his life, the late Happy Reeves Bell. They married in 1951 and Pitkin remained her devoted husband for 57 years.
He was as serious about farming as journalism, participating in local and county farm programs and government research projects. Believing in the importance of promoting local family-owned farms and their products, Pitkin and Happy were instrumental in establishing the Summerville Farmers Market.
Pitkin supported and worked to enrich his community. In 1947 he helped found the Harleyville Ruritan Club and was the last surviving charter member. A life long member of Bethel United Methodist Church, Pitkin held numerous stewardship positions and taught the adult Sunday school class for more than 50 years.
His love of words helped him hone a quick wit that was never demeaning. He knew just the right words to encourage and instill confidence in others.
Surviving are his daughters: Claudia B. (Bob) Brooks, Harleyville and Amanda B. (Brad) Anthony, Dover, MA; grandchildren: Nicole Brooks Knopp, Harleyville, Robert P. Brooks, Richmond, VA, Eric T. Anthony, DMD and Michael A. Anthony, Dover, MA. Pitkin was predeceased by his six siblings: H. Marion Bell, Matilda B. von Lehe, J.R. “Dick” Bell, Helen B. O’Neal, Ralph L. Bell and R.N. “Bob” Bell.
Funeral services were held at 11 am on Monday, July 26, 2010, Bethel United Methodist Church, 1163 Beidler Forest Road, Harleyville, with the Rev. Bob Lee officiating along with Pitkin’s nephews the Rev. Chrishon Ducker and the Rev. Emory “Chip” Reeves. Burial followed in the church cemetery. The family received friends at Bryant Funeral Home, 607 North Parler Ave., St. George, on Sunday, July 25. Memorials may be made to the Harleyville Ruritan Scholarship Fund c/o John Welch, 195 West Main St., Harleyville, SC 29448.