Lori Bell—known to so many in Second Life as Lorelei Junot—passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, leaving behind a legacy that changed how librarians and educators imagine the future. As the founder of the Community Virtual Library and a guiding force behind many virtual world projects, Lori carried a vision that was both bold and compassionate. She taught in Second Life at San Jose State University School of Information and shared immersive learning with her students.

Her work began with the Alliance Virtual Library, named for the Alliance Library System in Illinois where she served. But Lori quickly recognized that virtual worlds were not just a novelty—they were a new frontier for librarianship. Renaming the project the Community Virtual Library reflected her belief that virtual worlds were, at their core, places where people gathered, created, and learned together.

With a love of history, Lori Bell wanted to bring history to life! She delighted in historical and literary simulations, especially the Land of Lincoln, where Abraham Lincoln’s era came alive and participants dressed in period attire. These projects captured her spirit: imaginative, scholarly, and joyfully collaborative.

A memorial gathering was held on Renaissance Island—the last remaining region from Lori’s early work in Second Life and a place she cherished. There, she taught students about the Tudor era, weaving history into immersive learning. The tribute opened with a eulogy and moment of reflection from Korrigan Keynes, followed by a moving performance of Greensleeves by Wald Schridde. Colleagues and friends shared stories of Lori’s influence, her generosity, and the ways she shaped their professional and personal lives.

In her honor, a tree was planted on Renaissance Island. Amza (Baroness Anne De Darcy), who has lovingly maintained the island for many years, led the planting of an apple tree—a living symbol of Lori’s enduring impact. Renaissance music by Wald Schridde closed the ceremony, echoing through the island she helped bring to life.

The gathering concluded with a visit to the Community Virtual Library, the institution Lori founded. A song by Valibrarian (written for the 15^th anniversary of CVL and recorded on piano in Second Life) was shared. 

At the CVL Memorial Wall, her plaque was placed above the flame—a quiet promise that her contributions, her spirit, and her vision will not be forgotten.