Karen Bell Spencer's Obituary
Karen Bell Spencer, 72, of Keller, Texas, went to be with her Lord on September 19, 2025. She was born on October 31, 1953, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Willie and Imogene Bell. Karen was preceded in death by her parents. Karen’s life was defined by the deep love for her family. She was always focused on providing the best life for her husband and children, making sure all was taken care of and everyone had what they needed. Karen dearly loved her husband, Tom, of 48 years. They fell in love, built a family together, traveled the US and world together and demonstrated the meaning of their vows to stay together in sickness and in health.
Karen’s life was defined by her deep love for her family. She was always focused on providing the best life for her husband and children—making sure everyone was cared for and had what they needed. Karen dearly loved her husband, Tom, of 48 years. Together, they fell in love, built a family, traveled the U.S. and the world, and truly lived the meaning of their vows to stay together in sickness and in health.
She was endlessly proud of her children—from the time they were born, through their school years and sports, and into adulthood as they built families and careers of their own. Affectionately known to many as “Mimi,” Karen thrived in her role as grandmother to her beloved granddaughter and extended that same grandmotherly care to her friends’ children as well.
Karen was the kind of friend everyone needs—offering comfort, a listening ear, and a quick one-liner to spark laughter. She was always her loved ones’ biggest cheerleader in whatever they pursued. A devoted Florida Gators and Dallas Cowboys fan, she watched every game no matter the outcome, and she never missed a season of her favorite show, Survivor. As her journey with Multiple Sclerosis grew more challenging, Karen lived for the moments of connection with family and friends through calls—and the occasional competitive round of Words With Friends.
Karen is survived by her husband, Tom Spencer; her son, Neil Spencer; her daughter, Stacy Spencer; her granddaughter, Lily Shanks; her brother, Eric Bell; her cousins, Linda (Rick) Moore and Wade (Fran) Gowen; her nephew, Harry (Sherlyn) Bates; her niece, Brooke (Jody) Murders; and a host of dear friends. She will be remembered for her strength, her unwavering love for her family and friends, and her ability to make everyone feel special.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, with visitation from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. and a service at 2:00 p.m. at Memorial Park, 5668 Poplar Ave., Memphis, TN 38119. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Race to Erase MS in honor of Karen’s courageous fight with Multiple Sclerosis.
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