Mrs. Deann Bell Knight, 58, of West Howell Street, Hartwell, passed away Thursday, July 27, 2017 at her home.

Born on July 23, 1959 in Atlanta GA, she was the daughter of the late James Winfield "Jimmy" Bell Sr. and Charlotte Shelnutt Bell.Deann began her career as an interior designer and later pursued her passion as a philanthropist. She founded the local YMCA and dedicated herself to serving in the community.Deann was a former member of the DAR & UDC and was also a member of the First Baptist Church of Hartwell.

Survivors include her husband: Levoy Knight Sr.; two daughters: Caroline Sanders and her husband Dale of Anderson SC and Sarah Frances Smith of Auburn GA; three step-daughters: Sonya Knight of Denver CO, Stacy Knight of Hartwell and Lindsey Knight of Atlanta; two step-sons: Levoy Knight, Jr of Chattanooga TN and Zachary Knight of Atlanta; one grandchild: Malia Knight also survives.Mrs. Knight was preceded in death by her parents and one brother: James "Jimmy" Bell Jr.

Funeral services will held on Sunday, July 30, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Hartwell with Dr. Hugh Kirby and Dr. Steve Albanese officiating.A visitation will follow the service in the church fellowship hall. Burial will be in the Nancy Hart Memorial Park.

The body is at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell.The family is at the home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Bell Family YMCA, 281 Opal Street Ext., Hartwell, GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.