DUE WEST-  Karen Bell, the beloved long-time office manager for the Erskine Intercollegiate Athletics program, passed away suddenly in the early morning hours of Easter Sunday. Karen Bell (53) was a native of Staunton, Virginia who lived in Due West with her husband Robby, the Dean of the Erskine Seminary. The couple had been married for 31 years.  The Bells had two children and five grandchildren.

"We are devestated by the loss of this incredible lady. Personally and professionally, Karen Bell meant so much to me and this entire department. There is definitely a hole in our hearts today. We pray for Robby during this time. They were a remarkable couple," commented Director of Athletics Mark Peeler.

Visitation for Karen Bell will be Monday night at the Harris Funeral Home in Abbeville, SC from 6-8 p.m. The funeral will be at the Due West ARP Church on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. She will be buried in the cemetary next to the church.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Karen's name to :  Samaritan's Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC  28602.