Karen Shurtz

Karen Shurtz, age 75, passed away at her home in Ramer, TN on April 12, 2026 surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on July 5, 1950 in Christopher, Illinois. Karen was a graduated from Sesser-Valier High School in 1968. She took some college classes and became a well respected paralegal, specializing in wills, trusts, estate plannings, and deeds.

Karen will be remembered as a hard-working, devoted woman and momma who carried herself with a steady strength and purpose. She was a faithful and independent military wife, who offered unwavering support and resilience through the demands of military life. She had a strong, fierce love for her children, grandbabies, and great grandbaby. She was "Momma K" to many family and friends.

Karen found joy in the simple, meaningful comforts of everyday life. She loved to quilt and can. She was always looking to take advantage of a sale at Kroger's, a small pleasure that reflected her practical spirit and attentive care for her home and family.

Karen was preceded in death by her father, Donald Richard Basso, who she is now joyfully fishing with and eating the best tomato sandwiches; and her paternal and maternal grandparents.

Karen is survived by her husband of 43 years, Wayne Shurtz; mother, Beverly Jean Basso; daughters, Jean Buffkin (Joey, who she claimed as her own son), Stacee Reveron (Errick), Sarah Fuller, and Mariah Anderson; son, Donny Shurtz; special daughter in law, Tessa Shurtz; grandchildren- Tristin, Joseph, Jr., Cheyanne, and Isaiah Buffkin; Aydenn, Emma, Edgar, and Samantha Reveron; Eian, Judah, Asher, Bonnie, and Nathan Shurtz; great-grandchild, Oliver Buffkin; brother, Richard Basso (Sandy); and sister, Jeanne Wright (Chuck).

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Online condolences can be left at www.memorialcorinth.com for the Shurtz family.

Arrangements are under the care of Memorial Funeral Home.