Rev. Preston C. Belle

October 26, 1926 - March 30, 2019

The earthly life of retired minister and educator, Rev. Preston Charles Belle ended peacefully at Windsor Place Nursing Home in Columbus, MS on March 30, 2019. He was born October 26, 1926, the third child of Alvin and Amanda Reed Belle. He married India Walker (Belle) in 1952. This matrimony would last 53 years until she preceded him in death in 2008. Educational Experience His educational journey was initiated in the Aberdeen School System. He continued his formal education at Rust College in Holly Springs, MS. He pursued and obtained a Master’s Degree at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. He attended Garrett Theology Seminary in Evanston, IL. Professional Career His career as an educator began as a teacher in the Aberdeen School System for approximately three years. His position was then elevated to principal of Shivers High School. In 1963, he received a Master’s Degree and was then assigned to Shivers Junior High School as principal where he remained until his retirement in 1995. Pastoral Leadership His calling as a minister in the Mississippi Conference originated in 1955 where he served as pastor of several area churches: Athens Parish, Union Grove, Lexington Parish, Mt. Pisgah, Nettleton Palestine, Wright’s Chapel, and St. James United Methodist Church. Community Involvement Rev. Belle was named chairman of the Aberdeen Housing Authority, served on the Foster Care Review Board for the Monroe Welfare Department, was a member of the Parks and Recreational Board, member of the Aberdeen Democratic Election Committee, member of the South Monroe Chamber of Commerce, member of the Three River Planning Committee, an active leader of the Boy Scouts of American, and a probation officer for the young adults. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Amanda Belle; his wife, India Walker Belle; two brothers, Williams Belle and Calvin Belle. To his cherished memory he leaves, daughter, Jessyka Belle; sister, Alice Ford; brother, Alvin Belle, Jr.; grandson, Freddy Hill III; granddaugther, Rihanna Lipkins; Betty Taylor, Goddaughter; special caregiver, Betty Taylor; and countless admirers and friends.