Licensing industry veteran Jim Bell passed away suddenly Oct. 5 at the age of 59. He is survived by his father Clinton and daughter Samantha.

Bell spent his early years working for the Jim Henson Company, Rabbit Ears Productions, the New Jersey Devils, Galaxy Brands and Fog Studios.

In 1995, he took on the role of senior vice president of consumer products for the World Wrestling Federation.

In 2001, Bell founded his own licensing agency, Bell Licensing, which later became J2 Licensing, where he was a managing member.

Bell will be remembered for the mentoring and guidance he provided his staff and colleagues, always encouraging a creative approach to the business of licensing.