Karen C. Sell-Virgin

CASA GRANDE - Karen C. Sell-Virgin, 64, died on Feb. 21, 2019.

Ms. Sell-Virgin was born on Nov. 12, 1954. She and her husband moved from Ohio to the Casa Grande area in 2006. She loved the outdoors and was very fond of animals, especially dogs and horses. She received a bachelor's degree in education from Kent State University and later a Master of Administration and Psychology degree from Ashland University. She had a 3.98 grade point average and was fewer than 10 credit hours from a doctorate. She graduated Summa Cum Laude and was listed in Who's Who of American Geography Students.

Known as a strong force in education, she taught at Ohio schools, was principal for a charter school in Akron and taught at Desert Willow Elementary School in Casa Grande before becoming principal and program director for Saguaro Correctional Center in Eloy for 10 years before retiring. She was certified to teach special needs children including autistic students. She also worked with Quest Recovery Services to rehabilitate drug- and alcohol-afflicted people. She was witty and bright and had a kind word for everyone. She enjoyed her favorite little dog, Crocky.

Survivors include her husband of 25 years, Russell "Russ" Virgin, and four adult children in Ohio, Melissa and Brent Wells, Braden and Ryan Virgin. She was preceded in death by her mother and stepfather, Neva and George Long, and a brother, Donald Sell.

No service at her request.

Donations may be made in her name to: Pinal County Animal Care and Control, 1150 S. Eleven Mile Corner Road, Casa Grande, AZ 85194, or through the agency's website.

J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel in charge of arrangements.