Just weeks after making his big-screen debut in Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch, actor David Hekili Kenui Bell has tragically passed away.
His sudden death has left fans, family, and those who worked with him stunned and heartbroken.
The devastating news was shared by his sister, Jalene Kanani Bell, in a deeply emotional tribute posted to Facebook on Sunday.
While the cause of his death hasn’t been made public, the grief felt by those closest to him is painfully clear.
A Sister’s Heartfelt Goodbye
Jalene opened up with raw honesty, describing David as “sweet, generous, talented, funny, brilliant, and handsome.”
Her touching message detailed the moment she first met David—on her high school graduation day when she was 18.
It was a long-awaited family reunion orchestrated by their mothers, and it left an unforgettable mark.
Though she grew up without a father, Jalene said David filled that space with boundless love.
“He gave me all the unconditional love I could possibly ask for,” she wrote, adding that his joy, warmth, and kindness were felt deeply by everyone in his life.
A Life Lived with Love and Laughter
David wasn’t just a performer—he was a family man who thrived on connection.
Jalene recalled how he loved spending time with his nieces and grandnephew, always coming up with fun ways to bring the family together.
Whether it was planning trips to the Lindsey family reunion or bonding over movies, he brought people closer.
His passion for life was evident in everything he did.
From acting to voiceovers to his work with Kona Brewing Company, David lived with purpose and excitement.
He loved the arts and entertainment world, and his roots in Hawaiian culture—combined with a knack for languages and humor—made him stand out as a true original.
A Moment in the Spotlight
David’s big break came with his role as the “Big Hawaiian Dude” in Lilo & Stitch, which premiered on May 23.
It was a full-circle moment—one he celebrated by taking his family to the premiere in Kapolei.
He even planned ahead and bought the best seats in the house, which, as Jalene joked, was unusual for him.
They were surrounded by fans decked out in Lilo & Stitch gear, and Jalene remembered how they had talked about getting shave ice afterward to recreate a scene from the film.
Although the shop was closed, they went the next day to honor him—her grandson moved to tears by the moment.
An Actor, a Voice, a Presence
Beyond Lilo & Stitch, David had appeared in popular TV shows like Hawaii Five-O and Magnum P.I.
He was also set to star in an upcoming film called The Wrecking Crew, which is currently in post-production.
Even outside of acting, David left his mark. At Kona Airport, his voice greeted travelers over the PA system—just another way he touched lives.
He loved working there and took pride in making sure people felt safe and welcome.
Remembered with Warmth and Humor
David was active on social media, often sharing funny and heartwarming posts.
His last Instagram post on May 30 celebrated a big win—Kona Brewing’s ad campaign, which won the 2025 Pele Award for Best In Show.
As an ambassador for the brand, he was thrilled to be part of the success.
He even posted a playful clip from his Lilo & Stitch audition, joking about his failed attempt to eat a fake snow cone.
“Pretty sure that’s what did it,” he laughed in the caption, showing the humor that made him so beloved.
A Legacy of Aloha
David’s representative, Lashauna Downie, shared her sorrow with TMZ, saying, “He embodied the true meaning of aloha… a gentle giant.”
Like many, she learned of his passing through social media, highlighting just how sudden and shocking the news has been.
Jalene ended her tribute with a message to everyone who knew and loved him, especially their extended ‘ohana.
She promised to keep David’s memory alive by resharing his joyful posts and reliving their special moments—big and small.
Holding On to the Memories
Jalene’s final thoughts were a reminder to cherish the time we have.
She described their last evening together: sitting on the couch, chatting about life, sipping a seltzer, and tracing family history
It was simple, but meaningful—and now, unforgettable.
As she wrote: “Blessed by this and all the big and small moments, I will keep our memories alive.”