Clifton Charles Bell

Clifton Charles Bell, 22, passed away Friday, March 29, 2024, in Conway, Arkansas. 

He was born July 3, 2001, in Harrison, Arkansas.

Clifton was preceded in death by his aunt, Michelle Bell and his pawpaw, Buddy Clifton. 

He is survived by his parents: Amy and Trey Bell; his grandparents: Sandra and Carroll Bell Jr.; his grandmother, Betty Clifton; his uncle Trey and aunt Lana Clifton; his uncle Frank and aunt LoriAnne Shelton; his cousins: Will Joshlin, Emily Joshlin, Jessica Clifton and Mason Clifton and many other near and dear relatives and friends. 

Clifton was a man of God. He boldly and fearlessly proclaimed his faith to everyone. He believed God placed him on this earth to spread the good news and bring others into the faith. He would never hide his light under a bushel. He was an integral member of The Chi Alpha Student Ministry at UCA, serving in various roles, including one-on-one counseling and Bible study group leader. He served on mission trips in The U.S. and Asia, forming lifelong friendships across the country and the globe. The Thursday before his death, he coordinated the overnight prayer of Gethsemane for his Chi Alpha group. When asked how long he planned to stay that night, his response was “as long as the Lord needs me.” He prayed all night. 

He was a miracle baby and only child who was doted on his entire life. He had an unusually strong bond with his parents and called or texted every day, not because he needed anything, but just because he wanted to talk, confide and share his day. He shared everything - sometimes more than Mom and Dad wanted to hear - but he felt such a deep connection and understanding with his parents and truly valued their input on every aspect of his life. He was their everything. 

Clifton was born in Harrison, Arkansas, and he moved to Maumelle, Arkansas in the 9th grade. He attended high school at Central Arkansas Christian Schools, playing basketball and running cross country and track. 

After graduation, he even volunteered his time to help coach the cross country team and work at track meets.  He made lifelong connections at CAC and continued to stay in touch with friends and faculty. He also never lost touch with friends and teachers in Harrison. Though he loved his life in Maumelle, he maintained his hometown would always be Harrison.  He was a Goblin for life.

After high school, Clifton attended the University of Central Arkansas.   Even though he lived on campus, he frequently “stopped by” his parents’ home in Maumelle just to hug his mom’s neck and speak in person. He was active on campus, attending sporting events and actively following the UCA Bears in many sports. He also worked at The UCA Hyper, helping others with the exercise machines and sharing his passion for fitness. He was looking forward to graduating in December with his degree in Exercise Science. He planned to attend graduate school in athletic training. UCA has kindly awarded Clifton the degree he worked so hard for. 

Clifton began running in middle school.  He had a great love for track and cross country. For many years, he was mentored by Coach Cezar Terlea, The Head Cross Country & Track Coach for Hendrix College, who inspired Clifton to obtain his own coaching certificate from The USA Track and Field Organization. He was set to start an athletic training internship at Hendrix College in the fall. 

He was a huge sports fan. One didn’t need to watch ESPN to get all the latest stats when Clifton was around. He was a walking, talking SportsCenter. He especially loved the Dallas Cowboys, Miami Heat, Bayern Munich Football Club and The Baylor Bears. He filled his closet with team jerseys. 

Clifton loved a variety of music, from The Beatles to Johnny Cash to Lacrae to For King and Country. We often teased him that he lived his life like he was in High School Musical, always singing (slightly off key).

A visitation for Clifton’s family and friends will be held Friday, April 5, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Ruggles Wilcox Chapel in Arkadelphia, Arkansas.

A service to celebrate Clifton’s life will begin at 2:00 p.m. immediately following the visitation.

Chaplain Ryan Lajeunesse will officiate the service.

After the service, he will be laid to rest near his beloved Aunt Michelle in Rest Haven Memorial Gardens in Arkadelphia. Yerik Henderson will officiate the graveside service.

Arrangements are entrusted to Smith Family Funeral Home-Arkadelphia, 517 Clay Street, Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923.  www.smithfamilycares.com

“His Lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord.’ Matthew 25:23