Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

In everything that I have read, Billie and Bell got along fine and liked each other. Some reports will tell you that the pistol used by Billie went off accidentally during a struggle on the staircase of the old Lincoln County Jailhouse. It has also been written that Billie actually grieved and suffered for some time after killing Bell. In all accounts, Bell was a good guy, friendly and liked by many.

James W. Kolm Jr.
Ex Deputy Sheriff --- Billie the Kid Historian

April 3, 2024

They always said Bob was a Bully, but James and Billy got along well, I found this and thought it interesting

After being shot Bell managed to stumbled outside but fell dead near the doorway. When Billy later passed his body he was heard to mutter "I'm sorry I had to kill you, but couldn't help it".

Bell was taken back to his home of White Oaks and buried in the cemetery.

Special Agent Niki Parks
North East Georgia Drug Task Force

October 4, 2021

Deputy Sheriff Bell,
On today, the 140th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Lincoln County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

April 28, 2021

Rest in peace Deputy Sheriff Bell.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

May 3, 2020

James W. Bell could possibly be my great grandfather. Upon visiting the Lincoln museum and seeing the wonderful history of this era in our country I had to stop and read again the notes below James W. Bell. My mother was a Bell from Carizo Springs, TX. My grandfather was William E Bell. I’ve, been told over the years that one of my relatives was a Texas Ranger. One is buried near me. Could this be another? I’ll be checking. If anyone has any input please contact me.

Claude T Woodlee Jr
Pleasanton, TX

September 7, 2019

I was told years ago that we might be related. I would be so proud if we were.
Being a police officer is one of the most dangerous jobs you can have. To you and all your fallen brothers and sisters, I want you to know your sacrifice has not gone unnoticed or in vain. Thank you. R.I.P.

Marsha Bell Davis
Possible cousin.

March 5, 2017

I'm sorry that Deputy James Bell was shot dead. He was a good man.

Malcolm Mundy Registered Nurse
Registered Nurse with Sisters Of Seton

September 15, 2015

I made a pilgrimage to White Oaks and specifically to the cemetery to visit and pay my respects for Officer Bell. I was immediately struck by the rugged beauty and serenity I found there. Rest in peace and we shall forever honor your service.

Andrew Klement
grateful citizen

July 14, 2013

"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God."
Matthew 5:9

Marshal Chris Di Gerolamo
Federal Air Marshal Service

June 17, 2013

Deputy Sheriff Bell,
On today, the 132nd anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Lincoln County.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
U.S. Border Patrol

April 28, 2013

Deputy Sheriff James Carlysle, Deputy James W. Bell and Deputy United States Marshal Robert Olinger should never be forgotten for their line of duty deaths. They are truly heros for protecting and serving the people of New Mexico. For Governor Richardson to consider a pardon for the outlaw and murder Billy the Kids is just wrote. Everyone should write Governor Richarson and express their outrage for dishonring these deputies memories.

Chaplain John Elms
Tillamook County Sheriff's Office

August 2, 2010

Deputy Bell, you will not be forgotten! R.I.P.

Deputy Sheriff
Livingston County (Il) Sheriff's Ofc.

January 16, 2010

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 128th anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya

Phyllis Loya
mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater

April 29, 2009

YOU ARE REMEMBERED TODAY AND THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR SERVICE

VANDENBERGHE
MANCHESTER, NH

April 29, 2008

Deputy Sheriff Bell,
Thank you for your service and sacrifice Sir! You are a HERO.. You will ever be forgottten... Rest in Peace..

Joyce
SIster of Officer John P Harris EOW 8/19/1994

April 18, 2008

You were a very good man and didn't deserve what happened to you. However I seem far, I know you very well; as I know your "friends and enemies". You were at the wrong place at the wrong time and I remember you as the guy that tried to be as fair as possible with anybody, with you heart shared between Law and Friendship. You paid it with you live and are one of the most respectfull people that I know of your time.

André Deblende, chief Inspector
ZP 5342

March 13, 2008

Thank you always Deputy and may you rest in peace!

Cpl/1 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police

November 4, 2006

It is too sad that we remember the name 'Billy the Kid', but not all the names of those who fell victim to him.

It has been a long time since you fell, but your courage is not forgotten. I honor your bravery and sacrifice for the State of New Mexico.

L Robertson
APD, LEO's Wife

June 22, 2006

I am sorry our country has made hero's out of men like Billy the Kid. Thank you for your courge and sacrifice.

Daniel Olivas/Private citizen

August 27, 2004