About

Your Local Accounting Firm Since 1981

For over 40 years, Bell & Company has provided our clients with a level of service unmatched in our field. No challenge is too great for our team of over 50 professionals.

Our clients range in size from individual to large corporations. Our firm has the resources, experience, and depth of knowledge to offer services to both individuals and businesses. We can deliver the services you need in a professional, fast, and cost-efficient manner.

Not only do we believe in providing the best accounting services to our clients, but we also believe in giving back to our community locally, regionally, and globally.

In Arkansas, the firm supports numerous efforts in our community; serving on various boards and through the Faulkner County Community Foundation we are able to support local charities with grants.

With more than 50 team members, Bell & Company exists to help clients achieve their goals by providing a tailored service approach, which includes a dedicated firm team with the expertise you should expect.

AWARDS

2024 Beta Alpha Psi Business Information Professional of the Year
Richard Bell

2024 AY’s Best Accounting Firm of the Year
Bell & Company, PA

2021 House Bill 1209 work
Richard Bell

2020 Arkansas Business - Lifetime Achievement in Accounting Winner
Richard Bell

2019 NLR Chamber – Medium Business of the Year
Bell & Company, PA

2017 William H. Bowen School of Law University
of Arkansas at Little Rock Outstanding Public Service Award
Richard Bell

2011 National AICPA Public Service Award Winner
Bell & Company, PA

Our Team

Richard Bell, CPA, JD
CEO & Shareholder

  • Richard Bell, CPA, JD is the Founder and CEO of Bell & Company, a prominent regional accounting firm. With over four decades of experience in accounting and law, Richard has earned a reputation for excellence and integrity.

    Following undergraduate degrees in Accounting and Law from University Arkansas at Little Rock, Richard began his career working for public accounting firms and as a controller for a property management company. In 1981, he founded Bell & Company with his wife, Lee, to provide personalized and high-quality accounting services. Under his leadership, the firm has grown and thrived, serving clients in various industries.

    Specializing in tax, business, and estate consulting, Richard has extensive experience in the transportation industry. His work includes writing articles for transportation trade publications and providing continuing education seminars. Richard has also served as a forensic or expert witness in state and federal courts on transportation financial matters.

    As an adjunct professor at the University of Central Arkansas, Richard taught Business Law for Entrepreneurs. His dedication to education and mentorship has earned him recognition, including the 2020 Lifetime Achievement Award in Accounting from Arkansas Business. Richard served on the Bowen Law School’s Dean Advisory Board, has been recognized with the 2017 Bowen’s Public Service Award, and has endowed the Bell and Company Law Scholarship.

    He was appointed by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders as a Board Member on the Arkansas State Board of Accountancy to serve a second term. He is also on the 2024-2025 Legislative Support Committee for the National Assocation of State Board of Accountancy.

    In a significant acknowledgment of his contributions, this year Richard was initiated as an honorary member of Beta Alpha Psi's Theta Lambda chapter. Richard has been a guest speaker, course instructor, an endowed scholarship donor, and has hired many University of Central Arkansas (UCA) students as interns and full-time staff. His ongoing support has been instrumental to the UCA Accounting program and Beta Alpha Psi chapter.

    Richard and Lee have two remarkable grandchildren, Luna and Marlee.

    Richard Bell's leadership continues to guide Bell & Company as a chief mentor and CEO with passion and dedication, ensuring the firm remains at the forefront of the accounting industry following Bell’s future retirement.

Kelly Phillips, CPA
Shareholder

  • Kelly joined Bell & Company in 2009, after working for a regional firm in Alabama for 10 years. However, her professional career started at a much younger age when she was just a teenager, assisting her aunt during school breaks manually typing W2s and heading up green ledger books. She found the broader profession intriguing and developed an and  enthusiasm for accounting. Kelly oversees the Tax Department and is a highly respected co-worker, manager, and friend to all. She enjoys working with clients at all levels and capacities, and makes herself a part of their team of experts. Kelly claims that her proudest accomplishment to date is being the first of the next wave of new Shareholders at Bell & Company. She finds the time to not only dedicate countless hours to her clients, five children and community, and is also an avid reader and state fair ribbon-winning paper crafter,

Nell Sterling, CPA
COO & Shareholder

  • Nell joined Bell & Company in 1986, and has been practicing with her brother, Richard Bell, ever since. Every client that has ever worked with Nell knows her passion for client service runs deep – Nell goes to battle for her clients, team members, and family. That passion and determination are unparalleled when it comes to resolving IRS and State tax matters, as she has created a niche within the firm and become an expert at navigating the complexities of tax laws and government agencies with the greatest of respect and finesse, all while protecting her clients from overreach or abuse.

     When Nell became a CPA, there were not many women who in the profession. However, one of her proudest accomplishments is that over the years, she has encouraged the firm to recognize the valuable perspective offered by women in accounting,  and has worked to implement policies to accommodate their contributions that allow them to succeed without having to conform to a traditional career path. Nell strives to make the workplace one that is encouraging, flexible and open to other women, as well as those that want a family and career in public accounting.

    Nell and her husband, Mike, love to travel in their RV and spend time with their son and his family. Nell also loves her horses and dogs, but most of all she loves chasing after her grandson.

Pancho Espejo, CPA, CVA
Shareholder

  • Pancho became a Shareholder of Bell & Company in 2024, but his history with the firm began in 1998. He is always on the forefront of tax law changes and is arguably one the most technical tax technicians in the industry. He currently manages the tax section of the transportation division of Bell & Company, identifying issues and implementing solutions for transportation clients and the unique tax situations they encounter in their worldwide business model.

Jeff Lovelady, CPA
CFO & Shareholder

  • Jeff has been part of the core of Bell & Company since 1992 and provides not only expert consulting to his transportation industry clients, but also manages the firm’s IT Department as well as the A&A Department. With decades of experience, Jeff is instrumental in supporting clients, particularly in the transportation industry, where he has developed a deep niche expertise. He has authored articles for publications like Arkansas Trucking Magazine and Arkansas Business’s Transportation edition.

    Jeff can look at a set of financial statements and analyze it quickly, identifying strengths and weaknesses and offer strategies to the client based on their goals. Jeff sees through the numbers and works with his clients to continually minimize their tax burden while improving their cash flow. 

    In his spare time, Jeff loves the outdoors and is dedicated member of his church. He has a vast Lego collection, enjoys gardening, cooking, and is looking forward to sharing all of these hobbies with his grandson.  

Nadine Grady, CPA
Shareholder

  • Nadine has been with Bell & Company since 2007 and became a Shareholder in 2024. Nadine concentrates her talents in the Audit & Attest sector of  the firm. She specializes in attest work and is responsible for overseeing the firm’s Peer Review process. Nadine enjoys tax work as well, which is beneficial in her work with contractors and transportation industry clients.

    Nadine’s passion for attest work has translated to a goal of growing the firm’s A&A team to provide the best service possible. Nadine loves a challenge and does not turn a client away because they might be in a bad situation – her  dedication and determination to provide impeccable service propels her through any challenge.

    Nadine has one son, and likes to spend free time working puzzles, crocheting, exploring good recipes, watching movies, and being outside.

Abby Freeman, CPA
Shareholder

  • Abby joined Bell & Company straight out of college in 2014 and became a Shareholder in 2024. Her passion for training and mentoring the next generation of CPAs is unwavering. Abby stumbled upon her love for accounting accidently by taking an “easy computerized” course in high school; her dedication to the profession comes across every day as Abby works with clients, team members, and business colleagues.

    Abby manages the Conway office. She is well versed in tax planning, compliance, and advisory services to clients in many  industries, ranging from  a small business start-up in Conway to transportation companies that cross the globe, and from a construction company to a family who wants to invest in rental properties - she treats each client with the upmost professional respect as she strives to help them understand their financial and tax situations.

    In her free time, Abby loves putting together puzzles and LEGO projects with her husband.

Ron Ball, CPA
Principal

  • Ron joined Bell & Company in 2017. He was formerly the managing member of the firm King, Ball & Company, PLLC, which merged with Bell and Company. Ron brought with him over 30 years of public accounting experience as well as a his knowledge of and commitment to the sport of  equine thoroughbred racing. While most Spring weekends you’ll find him at Oaklawn park cheering on a client’s, friend’s or his own horse, he is committed to his clients and their needs throughout the year.

    Ron is actively involved in his community and has served on various charitable and civic boards. He lives in Maumelle with his wife, Camille. They have two adult sons, a daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren. Ron is a 1981 graduate of the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

Robert Holt, CPA
Principal

  • Robert is no stranger to the world of public accounting in Arkansas, Harrison and its surrounding communities in particular.  With the merger of Holt & Hudson, CPAs with Bell & Company in 2023, Robert continues to be the anchor to the Harrison team members, clients and  his community.

    Robert is a man of honor and integrity, and strives to always be honest with his clients, team members and colleagues no matter the circumstances.  His technical abilities, utilized while working with small businesses from a variety of industries, public governmental utility services, and individuals while navigating the complexities of the tax code are a testament to his professionalism and integrity. Robert is a trusted advisor and the Bell & Company family is honored to have him be a part of the firm’s journey.

    Robert and his wife, Katie, have two children, two grandsons, and two dogs - all of whom they love and treasure very much.

Dwain Hudson, CPA
Principal

  • Dwain joined Bell & Company in 2023, with the merger of Holt & Hudson, CPAs. Dwain always has a smile on his face and joke ready when you need it. As much as Dwain loves to joke and have fun, he throws the same tireless energy into his work and clients; the results he achieves speak to his work ethic and dedication. .

    You might find Dwain having a cup of coffee with his friends at the local coffee shop, or listening to one of his many clients as they confide in him, sure that Dwain will help them navigate whatever situation they find themselves in.  Dwain is honest in everything he does and says, which is a life motto he tries to live out each and every day.  

    Dwain and his wife, along with their two children and four grandchildren love the simple things in life, but don’t be surprised if you hear Dwain’s unforgettable laughter on the beach somewhere in Florida.

Bobbi Britton, PHR, SHRM-CP
Human Resource Director

  • Bobbi joined Bell & Company in 2019, as the Human Resources Director and was tasked with creating an HR Department to support the current team and the continued growth of the company. She is certified by the Human Resources Certification Institute as a Professional in Human Resources and a Certified Professional with the Society of HR Managers. Bobbi is a member of the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Central Arkansas HR Association (CAHRA).

    Early career choices introduced her to Accounting and she worked as an Accounting Clerk. Working with employees while handling their payroll and benefits issues inspired her to convince her then-boss that a true HR department was needed. He agreed and said, “it’s on you; tell me what you need.” This unwavering support from former and current employers is the cornerstone to her success. The opportunity to help employees, be it a personal or professional matter, and to see their  growth and appreciation are what provides her with professional fulfillment.

    Bobbi is from Little Rock and grew up in the Allendale neighborhood. Her father was an OTR truck driver and her mother took care of managing the family of 5 children. Witnessing both of her parents' sacrifices to ensure their children had a better life solidified a strong worth ethic within her. Seeing the strong, independent woman that her mother was greatly impacted her view of herself. In her spare time, Bobbi loves to travel because there is so much of the world she has yet to see.

Deanna Lovelady
Marketing Director

  • Deanna joined the firm in 1991 and is responsible for the firm’s branding and marketing activities.  She is also an Administrative Assistant to Richard Bell and has served him for over 30 years. 

    Deanna’s personal philosophy is to live your life one day at a time and keep it simple.  She attributes much of her success to her mother, whose strong work ethic greatly influenced her.

    Deanna leads the Celebrate Recovery Ministry at her church as well as  sings with the worship team, and serves as a member of various classes and groups. Deanna and her husband Jeff enjoy spending time together, traveling, and working together.  

Richelle Eoff, CPA
Manager

  • Richelle has been with Bell & Company since 2007. She has worked in many areas of the firm over the years, but her true talents and passion came to life once she became Manager of the firm’s IT department. Richelle keeps the firm and its staff operating with her specialized knowledge of how accounting and IT come together.  She still serves clients as well as assists with the firm’s intern program, training young accountants on software and technical skills to help them succeed. 

    Richelle lives by the motto, “It doesn’t get easier, you just get stronger.” No matter the issue at hand, or as unpredictable as IT might get at times, Richelle is there with her strength and knowledge to tackle even the most unexpected events. She is truly an asset to the team and makes sure the firm is up and running no matter the technological hurdle.

    Richelle and her husband, along with their son, enjoy sports.  Richelle is proud to have watched her son play soccer for over 12 years. When she is not cheering on her son, she loves sitting by the fire and reading a good book.

Sara Stancil, CPA
Manager

  • Sara came to Bell & Company in 2019 with over 7 of years of experience under her belt.  Not wasting any time once she joined the team, Sara stepped up and dove into the world of trust and estate tax planning and consulting and currently manages the Trust & Estate Tax specialty tax service department.

    Sara is dedicated to her clients, regardless of the complexity of the situation they find themselves in.  She seeks out the heart of the issue, fights for the most tax advantageous position for her clients, and is not afraid of a challenging tax situation – in fact, she is driven to succeed when given a seemingly insurmountable problem.

    Sara is married with one son. When she is not at the office,  she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

Corey Brooks, CPA
Supervisor

  • Corey Brooks began her public accounting career in the summer of 2007, starting as an administrative assistant intern at a local CPA firm in North Little Rock while continuing her education. She worked there throughout her undergraduate studies and, after earning her Master of Accountancy from Hendrix College, transitioned to a full-time role. After her second son was born, Corey decided to explore the private sector for a time, but her “first love” was always public accounting.

    Corey was thrilled to return to her passion when she joined the Bell & Company team in the fall of 2021. Specializing in Audit & Attest services, she works with clients across various industries, bringing her extensive expertise and love for a challenge to every engagement. One of her proudest professional accomplishments was passing the final section of the CPA exam just three weeks before her first son was born.

    She and her husband, Charles, live in Little Rock with their two sons. In her free time, Corey loves spending time with her family, her mom, and her closest friends.

Lani Jennings-Hall
Marketing Manager

  • With a background in digital media and nonprofit marketing, Lani specializes in social media management, content creation, and website development. She is passionate about community outreach and is actively involved in local causes, serving on the board of the Faulkner County Community Foundation, Conway Kids' Triathlon, and AMBCS. Lani holds a Bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Central Arkansas and brings over eight years of marketing experience to the team. In her free time, she enjoys cycling and spending time with her family.