Mary Elizabeth Covington Bell, lovingly known to all as “Lib,” passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026, at the McLeod Hospice House in Florence, South Carolina. She was 94 years old.

Born on October 21, 1931, in Bennettsville, South Carolina, Lib grew up in a time that prized hard work, faith, and community—values she carried with her throughout her life. She was a devoted wife and partner to her husband, William, faithfully supporting him through his many civic responsibilities in Richmond County, North Carolina, and building a life rooted in service and family.

Lib’s children and grandchildren treasure memories of her love for travel and the water. Beach and lake days became family traditions—filled with skiing, knee boarding, pontoon boat rides, laughter, and togetherness that spanned generations.

After moving to Florence, Lib embarked on what would become a remarkable and much-admired career in real estate. Beginning in 1973, she poured her energy into helping families find not just houses, but homes. Her dedication and passion carried her through nearly five decades of service, retiring in 2020 at the age of 89. While her professional accomplishments were impressive, Lib was most proud of her family. She was the steady heartbeat of her home—a source of wisdom, strength, and unwavering love.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 70 years, William Joseph Bell, and her son-in-law, Philip G. Smith.

Lib’s legacy of love lives on through her children: Elizabeth Ann Smith; William Joseph Bell Jr. (Susan); and Claudia Bell Ervin (Evander). She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Robert Hunter Bell (Kristin), Mary Elizabeth Ervin, Melanie Smith Yengel (Doug), Brian Phillip Smith (Katie), Ann Bell Spicher (Kyle), and Samuel Hugh Ervin (Amy); her niece, Libby Harmon, and great-niece, Abigail Johnisee. She was also blessed with ten great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy in her later years.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the devoted caregivers who lovingly spent countless days, evenings, and weekends with Lib in the years leading up to her illness—Betty Scipio, Adrinel Thomas, Donna Graham, and Tonya Alexander. Their compassion, dedication, and kindness meant more to Lib and her family than words can express.

Memorials may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 915 Cherokee Road, Florence, SC 29501.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Calvary Baptist Church with the service to be held in the church sanctuary at 3:00 pm. Entombment will be private directed by Calcutt-Dowling Funeral Home.