Why I Love Franklin County: Mayor/Santa Steve Bell
FRANKLIN LIVING— Mayor Steve Bell of Phil Campbell has a unique side-hustle for which he’s become well known: local Santa Claus. When he’s not leading the Town of Phil Campbell or working his day job as operations manager at CNC Stonecrafters, one just might find him waving in a parade or taking photos with good little girls and boys – at least this time of year.
Bell has lived in Franklin County for 34 years. He is married to Debra Wyatt Bell, a registered nurse with Aseracare Hospice in Hamilton, and they have two daughters: Haley Bell Jackson, RN/senior quality information specialist, married to Nic, full-time youth pastor at Cliff Haven Church of God of Prophecy in Sheffield, and their children Asa, 5, and Abram, 4; and Terri Bell, poultry science graduate from Auburn University, employed as broiler manager at Pilgrim’s.
What is your job title, and what does your work entail?
I work full time with CNC Stonecrafters in Phil Campbell as operations manager. I get to see and meet a lot of people as I go into their homes to measure for granite countertops. I am also currently serving as mayor for the Town of Phil Campbell in my second term. And I could never leave out the pleasure of portraying Santa during the holiday season.
What made you choose your job at CNC Stonecrafters? What do you enjoy about it?
The technical aspect of the work attracted me years ago as an electrical maintenance technician. I always wanted to know how things worked. Although I no longer actively work on equipment, I still enjoy the amazement of how it has advanced over the years. In my current role, the thing I enjoy most is all the people I come into contact with during the week.
What is your favorite place to visit in Franklin County?
With such a wide array of places to visit in the county, you will find me most frequently at our church, whether it be for worship or just taking care of some type project.
What is your favorite Franklin County restaurant, and what do you like about it?
I’m sure I’ve missed some, but you can look at me and tell that I’ve tried a wide variety. Depending on my taste for the day, you might find me anywhere – but most frequently at Jack’s just because of the convenience and the consistent down home flavor and variety.
Why do you love Franklin County?
Why would you not love Franklin County, with all the people who make up the county that are always willing to extend a helping hand? The variety of outdoor activities is endless. With the churches, schools and organizations, it’s a great place to raise a family.
Fast Five
- Favorite hobby: deer hunting
- Favorite food: meat and potatoes
- Goal or ambition: To be remembered as fair, impartial and always willing to help.
- Church: Cowboy Church of Franklin County
- Something people might not know about me is: I actually grew up as a very shy introvert. I’m still working on turning that around.
