Ms. Karen R. Owens, 67, passed away on Thursday, May 9, 2024. She is survived by her loving family. We ask that you keep this family in your hearts and prayers during their time of bereavement.

Ms. Karen Regina Owens, affectionately known as “Lay”, graced this world with her presence on May 13, 1956, in Gadsden, Alabama to the late John Lee and Mary Owens.

Her four beloved children were the joy of her life: Nakeshia, Paunsell, Antonio and Donyell.

Karen’s journey on earth came to a peaceful close on May 9, 2024, at Riverview Hospital in Gadsden, AL, joining her parents and sister, Pearlie May Hale, brother-in laws, George Williams, and one sister-in-law, Rika Owens in eternal rest.

A proud product of the Gadsden City School System, Karen’s educational path took her from L.V. Johnson Elementary to General Forest Middle School, culmination in her graduation from Emma Samson High School in 1974.

She attended Mt. Pilgrim Baptist church under the leadership of Rev. H. L. Spruill as a young child and later as an adult, attended Mission Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Grady E. Robinson.

Karen’s life was enriched by countless friendships, particularly with Penney Jean Martin and (Brother-in-law) Michael Taylor.

She had a passion for music and was a great dancer. She loved engaging in heartfelt conversations with her many, many friends and offered wise counsel to all who would listen. Karen was gentle at heart, but stood firm on what she believed was right, undeterred by the sway of public opinion.

Her absence will be profoundly felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her memory will be treasured by her devoted children, Nakeshia Allen of Beaumont, CA, Paunsell Nelms of Gadsden, AL, Antonio (Kimberly) Owens of Gettysburg, PA, and Donyell Owens of Gadsden, AL.

Her grandchildren whom she adored are Darshay Cook of Beaumont, CA, Kaleb, Kaitlyn and Kason Nelms of Gadsden, AL, De’Recka and Alonna of Gadsden, AL, Antonio, Jr., Eisbella, Miracle, Ma’Kaven Owens, Mackenzy Romine of Gettysburg, PA; great grandchild, Ka’Lanii Stamps; two sisters, Carolyn Williams of Riverside, CA, Phyllis Taylor of Gadsden, AL; six brothers, Willie (Kaye) Owens of Piscataway, NJ, John (Edwina) Owens, Jr. of Atlanta, GA, Robert Owens of Cologne, Germany, James (Marie) Owens of Riverside, CA, Larry (Pamela) Owens of San Antonio, TX, and Kenneth Owens of Gadsden, AL. Her memory will be treasured by a circle of relatives, including Aunt Patena James and friends who found joy and inspiration in her life.

Public Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 16 and Friday, May 17, 2024 from 12noon-7pm at West Gadsden Funeral Home.

Funeral Service will take place on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 12noon at the Betty D. Robinson Chapel (West Gadsden Funeral Home).

Arrangements under the direction of: West Gadsden Funeral Home

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