NEWPORT, R.I.-- Salve Regina University honors the legacy of former Seahawk football coach, Arthur "Art" Bell, who passed away peacefully on August 18, 2024, after a battle with cholangiocarcinoma.

A Rhode Island native, and 1979 graduate of Rogers High School, Bell first began coaching at Salve in 1992 as an assistant coach alongside head coach Tim Coen. He took on the role of head coach in 2000 and continued in this position for six seasons, all while teaching in the Middletown Public Schools district.

"Coach Bell was one of the founding fathers of Salve Football," remarked current head Salve Regina football coach Kevin Gilmartin. "He paved the way for us to be able to be a part of the program we love, which we are extremely grateful for. But for all that great coaching work, he was an even better person than he was a coach. He will be missed!"

In addition to his work coaching and mentoring students-athletes at Salve Regina, Bell has impacted students across the state of Rhode Island while working at Portsmouth Abbey, Portsmouth High School, Rogers High School, Bryant University, and Middletown High School during his career.

"Art and I shared a lot in common when we both started at Salve Regina in 1992," remembers Seahawk director of athletic communications and former head tennis coach Ed Habershaw. "We connected with our passion for the Oakland Raiders, and had the similar bond of raising a son and daughter. It was always great to see Kyle and Kelsey join him on the sidelines before and after games, as well as around campus."

"Art was extremely kind to me when I first began coaching at Salve," recalled head Salve Regina men's basketball coach Sean Foster. "I truly valued his experience, his willingness to share knowledge and I enjoyed connecting with him on many topics. He was always jovial and picked everyone up daily with his infectious spirit. His impact on many in our Salve Athletics community was huge because he was about helping others. The effect he had can be seen on all who have had the privilege of playing for him and carry his legacy."

Bell's impact on Salve Regina and the Newport community is vast and extends far beyond the football field. Student-athletes and administrators who were lucky enough to know him recall his positive and infectious spirit. "Crazy Train" by Ozzy Osbourne will forever remind those he worked with of his presence and support from the sideline.

"Arthur will be remembered fondly as a strong coach, great mentor and a kind friend," said Salve Regina office coordinator and cheerleading coach Dawn Hahn. "His contributions to the Seahawk family will stay in the hearts of all those that played for him and worked alongside him. In memory of Coach Arthur Bell, all aboard!"

Visiting hours will be held Wednesday, August 21, from 4-7 p.m. at the O'Neill-Hayes Funeral Home, 465 Spring St, Newport.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, the family requests that donations be made in Arthur's name to any of the following: Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, Three Angels Fund, or Hillside Charitable Organization.

Find the obituary honoring the life and legacy of Arthur Bell here.