Karen Davis Bell

Dr. Karen D. Bell, affectionately known as "Kay," by her family was unexpectedly called to her eternal home on September 26, 2024, in Newport News, Virginia, passing peacefully from the comfort of her residence.

Born on March 11, 1946, to Vernal Davis and Ruth Baxter Davis, Karen was the second of their two daughters and a beloved figure who touched countless lives. Her absence will be deeply felt, yet her remarkable legacy will continue to live on.

Karen's journey began in Newport News, where she graduated from Huntington High School in 1965.

She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Science with a minor in Music from Fayetteville State University. Never one to stop learning, she pursued a Master of Science degree in Early Childhood Education and Theatre from Southern Connecticut State University, and later, a Doctor of Religious Education from Fredericksburg Bible Seminary.

In 1969, Karen gave birth to her cherished daughter, Dina Kaye, who remained the heart of her life. Over the years, Karen's personal journey included marriages to Brad A. Asbury, Henry L. Harris, and later, Earnest R. Bell. While she experienced different seasons in her personal life, one constant remained: her extraordinary devotion to education.

Her dedication to her education and professional growth mirrored her lifelong passion for nurturing young minds. Karen's career as an educator began in the public school district of Hampton, VA, and continued in New Haven, CT, where she taught every elementary grade level, inspiring countless students along the way. She was more than a teacher; she was a mentor, a guide, and a source of encouragement for those in their formative years. Among her many professional accomplishments, she created the Talented and Gifted (TAG) Program for the New Haven Public Schools, developed a four-part TV documentary for parents of adolescents, and designed a Family Life Sex Education curriculum for middle school students. Partnering with Yale University, she led a transformative four-year Sex Education Training Program for educators and administrators. Even after retirement, Karen's commitment to education never wavered. She became the Director of NASA's Teacher Resource Center and served as a docent for NASA's space museum, furthering her passion for nurturing curiosity and learning. She continued to mentor and tutor elementary-aged children, developing the innovative "K's Attic" learning strategy to help at-risk students enhance their reading skills.

In addition to her profound contributions to education, Karen had a deep love for theatrics. Her passion for the stage began in elementary school and continued throughout her life. She acted in several productions, including roles in Picnic and The Church Fight, and appeared in multiple Black History Month commercials. Her vibrant spirit shone brightly both on stage and off, captivating all who knew her.

A proud and dedicated legacy member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Karen followed in her mother Ruth's footsteps, joining the Newport News Alumnae Chapter in 1970. Her sister Paula D. Dixon also followed in their mother's footsteps joining the sorority. The sororal legacy Karen carried has since been passed down to her daughter, Dina, and her granddaughter, Damoli, both of whom reflect the strength and sisterhood that defined Karen's life.

Karen is survived by her beloved daughter, Dina K. Harris of Snellville, GA; her cherished grandson, Shonari L. Harris of Detroit, MI; her treasured granddaughter, Damoli S. Harris of Pittsburgh, PA; and her precious great-grandson, Shonari L. Harris Jr. of Houston, TX. She also leaves behind her dear brother, Vernal Davis Jr. of Baltimore, MD; loving cousins, nieces (including Azure Dixon and her daughter Skye of Hampton, VA), nephews; as well as her mentee, Darshan Williams of Atlanta, GA, whom Karen regarded as a daughter. Karen was blessed by the devoted friendship of Vernell M. Reid of New Haven, CT, and the caring support of her neighbors, Linda and June. Preceded in death by her parents, Vernal and Ruth Davis, and her sister, Paula D. Dixon.

Karen's memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. May Dr. Karen D. Bell rest in eternal peace, her life's work complete and her legacy everlasting.