Karen Austin Hayes

Karen Austin Hayes, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to many, passed away on May 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Born on December 10, 1960, on Ramey AFB in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, to the late Decator “Tate” Austin and Olive Austin, Karen’s life was defined by her compassion for others, her devotion to family, and her ability to make everyone around her feel loved and cared for.

In 1982, Karen married the love of her life, David, and together they built a beautiful family and a home filled with love and laughter. She was a devoted wife, mother, “Wawa,” and proud beagle mom whose love was shown in both big and small ways every day. She made childhood magical for her children and grandchildren — handmaking birthday cakes and Halloween costumes, doing arts and crafts, volunteering at school and on the baseball field, filling ordinary days with special outings and adventures, and creating traditions and memories that will be treasured forever.

A proud graduate of Kempsville High School’s Class of 1979, Karen went on to become a Licensed Practical Nurse and spent many years serving others with warmth and compassion. After her career in nursing, she found joy in working as a kindergarten assistant at Arrowhead Elementary for 21 years, where her fun-loving personality and gentle nature made every child feel special. Through both her nursing career and her years in education, Karen touched countless lives with her kindness, patience, and generous heart.

Karen never met a stranger and had a warmth that drew people in. She carried friendships with her through every season of life — from childhood and nursing school to her years at Arrowhead, her neighborhood, and the community she loved. She enjoyed life’s simple pleasures — shopping trips, music and dancing, warm summer days at the beach, and working outside in her yard.

Karen is survived by her devoted husband of 43 years, David Hayes; her children, Matt Hayes (Tricia), Heather Burnett (Chris), and Lauren Hayes; her beloved beagle, Magnolia; and her four treasured grandchildren, Jackson, Cameron, Lily, and Caroline, all of Virginia Beach, Virginia.

She is also survived by her brothers, Decator “Tate” Austin Jr. (Carol) and Michael Austin (Bonnie); her sister, Carolyn Culpepper (Herbert); her mother-in-law, Audrey Hayes; her sister-in-law, Susie Austin; her brother-in-law, Steve Hayes (Stephanie); and many beloved nieces, nephews, lifelong friends, and extended family members.

In addition to her parents, Karen was preceded in death by her brother, Gary Austin; her father-in-law, Fay “Gabby” Hayes; and many cherished loved ones who welcomed her home.

Karen’s legacy is one of love, kindness, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. The memories, traditions, and love she created will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Smith & Williams Funeral Home, Kempsville Chapel. A celebration of Karen’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Community United Methodist Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia, with a reception to follow. Burial will be held privately with family and close friends.

In honor of Karen’s caring spirit, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Virginia Beach SPCA or the American Cancer Society.