Karen Laverne Upshur was born on March 13, 1961, in Clearwater, Florida to Johnny Upshur and Mary Upshur. Karen was a graduate of Clearwater High School, Class of 1980, Lee County Tech, Class of 1990 and received her master’s degree in engineering from the University of Phoenix.

She was employed with Sprint and Century Link for 30 plus years. She was a member of Victory Development Grant Writing and a Herba Life Chief Officer. Karen was a member of Emanuel Christian Church, where she served as a Prison Ministry Chaplain for 25 years and as a Sunday School Teacher.

She enjoyed her time with family, her daughter and grandchildren. Traveling and eating crabs with family and friends was a special pastime for her. She will be remembered as truly being the favorite AUNT!

Karen Laverne Upshur transitioned from this earthly life to her eternal home on October 23, 2025, Orlando, Florida.

She is preceded in death by her father, Johnny Upshur.

Precious memories will be treasured by..

Daughter: Lastacia Upshur

Mother: Mary Upshur

Brothers: Stephen Upshur (Andrea), McKenzie Upshur (Helen), Angelo Upshur and Johnny Upshur, Jr.

Sisters: Ancelyn Willis, Erica Lorde (Chris) and Lisa Upshur

Grandchildren: Javion Clarke and Evan (Amir) Forbes)

Cousin/brother: Vernon Goins

A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and loving friends.

Public Viewing: Friday, October 31, 2025, 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. at Smith Young Funeral Home, 1005 Howard Street, Clearwater, Florida 33756.

Celebration of Life: Saturday, November 1, 2025, 11:00 A.M. at Emanuel Christian Church, 585 Ninth Avenue North, Safety Harbor, Florida 34695.

Services Entrusted To The Care of Smith Young Funeral Home – 727-442-2388.