Laurens County School District 55 Deeply Saddened by the Loss of Beloved School Counselor at E.B. Morse Elementary

February 13, 2024

Laurens County School District 55 (LCSD 55) is deeply saddened by the loss of Stacey Krause. Ms. Krause has been a part of the LCSD 55 Family since 2016. She battled cancer and succumbed to the disease on Sunday, February 11, 2024. She served as E.B. Morse (EBM) Elementary School Counselor and previously served as a Math Teacher at Hickory Tavern School (HTS). She is loved by many in LCSD 55, and staff members are deeply saddened by her passing away.

“Stacey was truly a special person. She fought cancer courageously and without fear. My heart is broken, but I know she is at peace. She would want us all to remember the happy times and live life with no limits. She will truly be missed by all who loved and knew her,” said Ptia Patterson, a close friend and colleague of Stacey Krause at EBM.

EBM Principal Dr. Jason Bailey said, “Mrs. Krause was a fun-loving counselor who remained authentically herself whether interacting with students or staff. She had a heart for all kids, but especially those considered underdogs or vulnerable. Her humor and passion were deeply felt at E.B. Morse Elementary, and her passing is a huge loss for us.”

HTS Principal Emily Starling, friend and former colleague of Stacey Krause shared, “Krause loved like no other! Her students were her priority. She was their biggest supporter in and out of the school. She forever impacted those she taught.”

Sarah Katherine Starling, daughter of Emily Starling and former student at HTS, posted a heart-breaking message on social media about missing Stacey Krause. In her post, Sarah Katherine said, “I miss your smile. I miss how much you loved me. I miss you. Since I left middle school, I’ve looked forward to the day I get to walk down the halls of HT to see you there cheering me on at the finish line…I can now walk knowing that you’re going to see me walk across that stage. I miss you so much and love you forever and always.” 

The district kindly asks the community to keep Mrs. Krause’s family and the EBM Family in their thoughts and prayers.