Leon Bell Obituary: It is with broken hearts that we share the devastating news of the passing of Leon Bell, a cherished son, grandson, friend, and member of the Lincolnshire community. At only 16 years old, Leon’s life was cut tragically short following a ghastly motorcycle accident while riding his Aprilia RS50 Extrema—a bike he loved dearly. No other vehicles were involved in the incident, and despite every effort, Leon was pronounced dead on Sunday, March 28th. GoFundMe
There are no words strong enough to describe the sorrow that comes with losing someone so young, so full of promise, and so deeply loved. Leon was more than just a teenager; he was a bright, driven, and compassionate young man. Whether he was attending college, volunteering his time at Barnardo’s, or out riding his beloved motorbike, he lived his life with a sense of purpose, kindness, and joy that touched everyone who knew him.
From an early age, Leon showed a heart of gold. He wasn’t content to simply exist in the world—he wanted to make it better. His work as a volunteer at Barnardo’s spoke volumes about the kind of person he was: generous, thoughtful, and always eager to lend a hand. At just 16, he had already begun building a life centered on compassion and service. And even in death, Leon continued that legacy.
Leon had the foresight and maturity to register as an organ donor. He understood the risks that came with riding motorcycles, but he also believed in helping others—no matter what. In what can only be described as a final act of immense courage and love, Leon saved four lives by donating his heart, kidney, and liver. It’s impossible not to be overwhelmed with pride at the thought of this young man—gone far too soon—leaving behind such a powerful and lasting gift.
Leon’s family—his father Martyn, his stepmother Jo, his grandparents, and his extended family—are devastated beyond measure. To Martyn, especially: no parent should ever have to bury their child. If it were possible to take even an ounce of your pain away, know that there are countless people who would do so in a heartbeat. You have not been left alone in this grief—your friends, your family, and your community are with you every step of the way.
Leon’s funeral will take place on Sunday, 28th April at 1:30 p.m. at Lea Fields Crematorium in Gainsborough. The funeral cortège will begin a little after 1:00 p.m. from The Pavilion on Harby Playing Field, Church Road, and will be accompanied by a motorcycle escort—one final ride in honor of a young man who loved the open road. In celebration of Leon’s vibrant spirit, the funeral will not be a somber sea of black. The theme is purple, his favorite color, and guests are encouraged to wear something purple in his honor. His coffin, too, will be purple—a bold, beautiful choice that reflects his energy, youth, and individuality.
Tomorrow, friends and fellow riders will embark on a remembrance ride in Leon’s memory—a tribute to a life taken far too early, but remembered with immense love. This ride is not only an act of remembrance but also a celebration of Leon’s passion for motorcycles and the sense of freedom they gave him.
In the face of this tragedy, the community has come together with incredible strength and generosity. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help support Leon’s family with funeral costs. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a difference. For those unable to donate, there is still something incredibly meaningful you can do: consider becoming an organ donor. Leon’s selflessness saved lives—and your decision could one day do the same.
Leon’s legacy is not defined by the way he died but by the way he lived—and the lives he continues to impact even after his passing. He was kind, brave, and full of promise. He brought light into the lives of those who knew him, and that light will continue to shine in the memories we hold, the stories we share, and the lives he saved.
The grief of losing Leon is profound, and the road ahead for his family will not be easy. But they will not walk it alone. The community that surrounds them—friends, fellow bikers, neighbors, teachers, classmates—stands with them in mourning, in remembrance, and in love. You were only with us for a short time, but the mark you left is eternal. You lived boldly and loved deeply. You gave more to this world in your 16 years than many do in a lifetime. Your final ride may have taken you from us physically, but your spirit will forever echo in every twist of the throttle, every beat of a heart you helped save, and every act of kindness done in your name. You are forever young, forever loved, and forever missed.
