Dr. Demario J. Bell, Sr.

The Life of Apostle Dr. Demario J. Bell Sr,

Dr. Demario J. Bell, Sr. was born on May 29, 1989, to Gerrick and Tammy Palmer. He was raised in the Vidalia City School System, where he laid the foundation for a life dedicated to service and compassion. From a young age, Dr. Bell showed a deep passion for both ministry and the funeral industry. His natural ability to connect with others, combined with his warm, outgoing personality, made him a beloved figure to everyone he met. Dr. Bell was the type of person who never met a stranger. His kindness, humor, and genuine love for people left a lasting impression, ensuring that every interaction was meaningful. He found joy in spreading positivity, bringing laughter, and showing love to everyone he encountered. Dr. Bell’s devotion to his family, especially his children, was unparalleled. He loved them deeply and would go to any lengths to ensure their happiness and well-being. His life, though much too short, was full of love, service, and dedication. While his presence will be deeply missed, the legacy of his love, faith, and service to others will be cherished forever.

Dr. Bell's journey of faith began early. He felt the call of God on his life at a young age and started ministering at the age of 12. His unwavering commitment to God and His work led to his ordination as a minister in 2007. In 2018, Dr. Bell’s calling grew even stronger as he was licensed and ordained as Chief Apostle. His passion for serving God and His people was evident in every aspect of his life. In 2020, Dr. Bell’s pursuit of knowledge and spiritual growth led him to earn a Doctor of Divinity degree from HFM School of Theology through Just Praise God Fellowship. Throughout his ministry, Dr. Bell had the privilege of pastoring several churches, where he shared his deep love for God and worked tirelessly to spread the gospel. His relationship with God was the cornerstone of his life, and he lived as a true man after God’s own heart. He was committed to guiding others on their spiritual journeys and always led with compassion, humility, and grace.

In addition to his ministry, Dr. Bell also found a calling in the funeral industry, where he spent over 20 years of his life. With his vast experience and genuine desire to serve others, he became a trusted figure in the community. After working with several local funeral homes, Dr. Bell was led by God to open his own. In November of 2021, he founded Golden Gates Burial and Cremation Services. This new chapter allowed him to combine his love for people with his desire to provide compassionate, dignified care during one of life’s most difficult times. Through Golden Gates, Dr. Bell touched the lives of countless families, ensuring that each family received a Golden experience, one filled with dignity, respect, and heartfelt care. The motto of Golden Gates, “Serving Your Family In Your Time Of Need, Turning Your Tears Into A Golden Memory With Dignity And Respect. Always Leaving A Golden Touch. Service Is Our Passion, Dignity Is Our Name,” reflected Dr. Bell's deep commitment to providing exceptional service and leaving a lasting, positive impact on every family he served.

Dr. Bell's life and work were a testament to his unwavering faith, passion for service, and love for others. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, the families he served, and the love he shared. While his earthly journey has ended, his spirit and impact will continue to inspire and uplift all who had the privilege of knowing him. Dr. Bell’s memory will forever be cherished, and his work will continue to echo in the hearts of those he served.

Dr. Demario J. Bell was preceded in death by; grandmother, Pastor Loretta Woodard; great-grandmother, Annie Laura Bell; grandfather, Arthur Woodard; a dear Aunt, Lashana Woodard; two uncles, Russell Bell and John Bell; two aunts, Dorothy Adams and Doletha Corouthers.

Dr. Demario J. Bell leaves to mourn and cherish: his parents, Tammy and Gerrick Palmer; three daughters, Sema’J Bell, Ava Jones Bell, and Ashlyn Bell; five sons, Bryisen Perkins Bell, Braylon Bell, Demario Bell, Jr., Christian Bell, and Aiden Madison Bell; two brothers, Tobias Bell and Jeremy Bell; sister, Tyranisha Hawkins; grandfather, James Price; special aunt, Elder Sabrina (Bishop William) Mcleod; aunts, Evangelist Mary Henderson, Evangelist Losetta (Chief Apostle Curtis) Canty, Annie Burton, Annette (Thomas) Rawls, and Elonda Parker; uncles, Theron (Faye) Bell, Roy Lee Bell, and Michael Price; special nieces, Sariyah Bell, Christianna Woodard, and Elayzah Woodard; special nephews, Braylin Bell and Jer’mere Bell; nephews, Joshua Brown and Taylen Corbett; beloved fiancé, Marissa Gaffney; God mother, Diane Phillips; God sister, Ayesha Phillips; two best friends and a special thanks to them, Dan Bennett and Destiney Birdine. Also, a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Phillip's Temple Ministries, 214 Wilshire Blvd, Vidalia, GA 30474.

A Homegoing Celebration will be held following the visitation and begin at 1:00 p.m. at Phillip's Temple COGIC, 214 Wilshire Blvd, Vidalia, GA 30474. Interment will follow services at Mount Moriah Baptist Church Cemetery in Montgomery County, Georgia.