Karen Brenda Wilder peacefully passed away at the age of 68 on October 15, 2024, at Jameson Hospital. Karen was born on March 27, 1956, in Sharon, Pennsylvania, to her union of Elmer Joseph Lowe Sr. and Ola B. Lowe (Hollie). Karen's warm presence and compassionate spirit touched the lives of all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Growing up in Masury, Ohio, Karen found solace in the embrace of her close-knit community and later relocated to Farrell, Pennsylvania.
She went on to graduate from Farrell High School, earning her General Education Diploma, and embarked on a fulfilling career in the healthcare industry. For over thirty years, Karen dedicated herself to serving others at Sharon Regional Health System, where she left an indelible mark of care and kindness, retiring July 2022. Her contributions extended beyond retirement as she continued to make a difference as a receptionist at Whole Life Services, embodying professionalism and empathy in all she did.
Guided by her love for God, Karen was a dedicated member of Mount Olive Baptist Church. She would faithfully serve on the usher board as well as participating in the praise dance ministry. Karen realized tremendous joy among her church family.
Karen was known for her love of bingo, shopping, and, most importantly, her appreciation of spending time with her family and loved ones. She cherished her best friend, Nancy Stitt, whom she fondly called “Sista.”
Karen’s caring spirit, sense of humor, and warmth will be deeply missed by all who had the blessing of knowing her. We are comforted with the reality that Karen is in a far better place, free from pain and at rest peacefully with the Lord.
Karen's legacy is defined by the love she shared with her children, La Shonda Campbell of Columbus OH and Devon (Cindy) Campbell of Hermitage PA. As a devoted mother, her guidance and affection helped shape their paths, instilling in them the same values of compassion and community that she lived by.
Fondest memories will be cherished by her beloved sisters, Pamela Lowe and Judy Lowe of Sharon, Chris Lowe of Farrell, Margaret Ann Etchison of Albion, Michigan, Dorothy Brown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Carrie Knight of Staten Island, New York, along with her beloved brothers, Albert Lowe of Farrell, PA, Ronnie Lowe of Erie, PA, and Elmer Lowe Jr. of Pensacola, Florida. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and cherished memories among her nieces, nephews, and grandchildren which she held close to her heart.
Now among the ancestors, Karen was welcomed into eternity by her parents, granddaughter A’yanta Jarmon, sister May Lowe and brothers Jimmie Thomas, David Lowe, Lloyd Lowe, Elmer Lowe, Raymond Lowe.
To honor the life and memory of Karen Wilder, Celebration of Life Services will be held at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 8148 Ulp Street, Masury, on Monday, October 21, 2024, with a public viewing & family visitation at 10:00 AM. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM with Rev. Raymond Brown officiating and Rev. Donald “Soupy” Campbell serving as the eulogist.
The culmination of these observances will take place with a committal ceremony at Morefield Cemetery, Hermitage PA, where Karen will be laid to rest. Karen's presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love and grace will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her spirit shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched, forever guiding and comforting them in her absence.
At this most intimate time, the endearing family of Karen B. Wilder elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care and Professional After Care Arrangements with J. E. Washington Funeral Services,1059 Hamilton Ave, Farrell PA, 16121 724.983.1523