PEMBROKE, N.C. (WTVD) -- As November marks Native American Heritage Month, loved ones of Dr. Joseph Bell are remembering him as the first Lumbee pediatrician and North Carolina's first American Indian pediatrician.

"He cared for people. He devoted his life to taking care of people, not just physically, but also emotionally, mentally, and spiritually," said Ronny Bell, Dr. Bell's brother.

Dr. Bell was known as "Joey" to his two brothers. The three boys grew up in Pembroke, North Carolina, which is located in Robeson County. They are all graduates of UNC-Chapel Hill.

The Bell boys are the sons of James and Sarah Bell who were both Robeson County School educators. They taught the importance of giving back to native communities.

"There's a lot of health disparities. There's lots of soci

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