Carolyn Bell, a star safety, wide receiver and fullback for the Connecticut Crush, died in a car accident on Sept. 30. She was 40.
Born in London and raised in Hartford, Conn., Bell played basketball on the University of New Haven’s Division II national championship team in 1987. After graduation, she taught special education phys ed at Grace Webb School at the Institute of Living in Hartford.
An all-around athlete who played tennis, softball and was an avid swimmer, Bell joined the Connecticut Crush, a member of the National Women’s Football Association (NWFA), in 2001. She was named the most valuable player (defensive) in 2003 and 2004, and served as the team’s captain for three years. Bell also received the Crush 2002 Gridiron Award and was named an NWFA Defensive All-Star in 2004.
Bell had just parked her motorcycle near her home when a car driven by Eugenio River, of Hartford, struck and killed her. River, 24, was later charged with driving under the influence.
The Crush canceled a day of preseason training upon learning of No. 33’s death.
• Watch a Tribute From Front Row Photography
October 10, 2005 by
Carolyn Bell
Categories: Sports
Bellie Bell!! Just heard the news about you. God, I’m sorry to have lost touch. When I was in search of a church to belong to…you greeted me at the doors of Central Baptist church….we were both late. Your smile and friendliness helped me find a home…a huge step in my faith journey. It was wonderful singing our song with Sharon, Dick, you and I. Sofball games, basketball games….people are so right when they talk about your smile. I have two children of my own now….their laughter is infectious….so is yours!! I hope I can teach them….no, continue to encourage their zest for life….if they have half of your passion and joy, they’ll do just fine. My best to your family and closest friends….. Love ya Bellie Bell….Big K and family
Bell, Tyrone told me about you. I think most of your kindness. I remember the time in PTown, your beautiful smile and dark brown skin shinning in the summer light at Herring Cove and that boxer dog of yours lol, I still have the pics! Singing in our living room to that crazy song game with your mom… good times and fond memories to reflect on. I know you’re smiling with the Lord, just sorry you had to leave so soon… I’ll think of you when I’m riding and remember you’re free…
she was the best teacher in the world if it was not for her i would not be here now she helped me open my self up to people and live life to the fullest love miss bell from melvin lopez aka baby ti bka baby bell