Dr David Bell

University College deeply regrets to report that Dr David Bell, Emeritus Fellow of Geology at Univ, died peacefully on 24 June, aged 92. David and his wife Betsy have been longstanding active members of the College community and David will be deeply missed.

David joined Univ as a Lecturer in Geology in 1967 and was elected a Non-Stipendiary Fellow in 1970 and Sollas Fellow in Geology in 1971. He remained at the College until his retirement in 2000.

Alongside his teaching and research, David gave distinguished service and contributed significantly to the College, serving as Dean on several occasions between 1979 and 2000, as Senior Tutor from 1988 to 1990, and as Director of Undergraduate Studies in the 1990s.

During his retirement, David returned to Univ as Dean of Degrees from 2011 to 2016. He was also an enthusiastic supporter of the Music Society.

Many members of Univ, including those beyond the Geology community, will remember David for his quiet wisdom, kindness and commitment to the College. A full tribute to David will appear in the next issue of the University College Record.

The College would like to express its deepest condolences to David’s wife Betsy, his family and all those mourning his loss. If you would like to send a card or note to David’s family, please leave it in the Lodge (or email lodge@univ.ox.ac.uk) and we will pass it on.

The College Flag has been flying at half-mast as a mark of respect.

Published: 29 June 2026