Bell v. Dixie Furniture Company

Ness, Justice:

Appellant Ada Bell brought suit against respondent Dixie Furniture Company, Inc. alleging the tort of outrage. The trial judge ruled the conduct complained of was not so outrageous and shocking to be actionable and granted summary judgment for respondent. We reverse.

Appellant bought furniture on an installment account from respondent promising to pay $15.23 per month. When her payments became delinquent, respondent initiated a claim and delivery action to recover the balance due, $42.59, and $25.00 court costs.

Respondent did not appear at the hearing. The magistrate ordered…