Thomas (TJ) Bell Jr. was born on July 31, 2009, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Bria Sade Finnerson. TJ was his mother's one and only child—her best friend. He was also his father's only son.

TJ was a great kid—always happy and shy when you first met him, but once he opened up with that beautiful smile, kind spirit, and big heart, you couldn't help but fall in love with TJ, our little dancing machine.

In November of 2024, TJ found Jesus, gave his life to Christ, and started attending church again. He prayed with his Annie and often asked her to pray for him. TJ loved his family and friends dearly. He had his own ways of showing or speaking his love, often with that big laugh and his beautiful "Chinese smile," sharing joy and happiness every time he greeted you with his presence. TJ loved to sing and dance up until his very last moment here on this side of life. Playful but mindful, he had a gift for "capping" on you in the slickest way, leaving everyone falling out with laughter while he smiled and danced along.

TJ was loved and respected by all. He and his mother welcomed others into their home as if they were family, treating every child as one of their own. TJ kept up with the latest trends and music and even made a few videos with his cousins (off "No Hit Records"—an inside family joke). But most of all, TJ loved to dance, cap, and joke around with everyone he met. He will be dearly missed but always loved.

On September 16, 2025, Thomas (TJ) was called home to be with our Lord and Savior. His infectious smile, laughter, compassion, strength, sense of humor, and unforgettable dance moves will be greatly missed.

He is preceded in death by his grandmothers, Christine Bell and Deneen Upshaw-Finnerson; his grandfather, Dwayne Finnerson Sr.; and his uncle, James (JK) Mixion.

He leaves to cherish his Golden Memories: Bria Sade. Finnerson, Thomas C. Bell, Jamar Bolton, Thoma Dean, Tonya Coleman, Sisters: Tomesha, Jaciyah and Aniyah Bell. Aunts: Tara, Re'Shicka, Crystal, Letriana, Lanita, Yvett, Rosalyn, Larese, Khamaya and Mandesa. Uncles: Big Ricky, Darius, Stanley, Calvin, Mike, Rick, Edward, Herman Jr, Dwayne Jr, Damian Sr, Anton Sr and Tyri. First Cousins: Antaunna, Antonio, Ra'Shianna, Amani, Derrianna, Jordan, Dawana, Angelique, A'Zayianna, VyndaleleJr, I'Yianna, Brandon, Damian Jr, Cristen, Tiana, Anton Jr, My-Ianna, Evan Jr, Ikel, Dwayne III, Damar, Damel, Jayceon, Camyla, Marianna, Dayveon, Charles, Jay'Ianna, Amari, Letriana, Myisa, Eric, Kaidence, Kai'Lani, Aarionna, Abrianna, Lamyha, Emylaa, Tray'on, Lamarion, Lahmir, Ri'Yanni and A'Zariah.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, on  Friday, October 3, 2025, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati  (45206).   The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation,  beginning at 11:00 am. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy he leaves behind.

He will be laid to rest at Spring Grove Cemetery.

We invite you to take a moment to share fond memories and offer words of comfort and condolence to the Bell family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the Bell family during this difficult time.  Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.