Karen Suffridge

Karen was a devoted wife, sister, mother, and grandmother whose life was marked by faith, service, and love. She spent countless hours serving in community ministries, participating in women’s small groups, and offering support to those in need. Karen found joy in hiking, exploring nature, and cherished family game nights and playing pickleball with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Ed and Bea Cooper. Karen is survived by her loving husband and high school sweetheart of 48 years, Allen Suffridge; her daughter and son-in-law, Misty and Chris Stamm; her niece, Melissa Cooper; her nephew and his wife, Jason and Betsy Wood; her brother, David Cooper; her sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Richard Wood; and her adored grandchildren: Jaydon, Reese, Jazmine, Max, and Gabe.

She spent 47 years with her soulmate, Allen. They built a life side-by-side, not just living together but loving together. They were partners in every sense—walking the same paths, hiking the same trails, exploring new places hand-in-hand. Whether they were on a mountaintop, on vacation, or simply sharing an ordinary day, being together was always their greatest joy. They especially loved the simple, happy moments—like playing pickleball and dodgeball with their grandkids, laughing, chasing, and creating memories that will stay with the family forever.

Karen’s heart for helping others was evident in all she did. As an active member of Christ Covenant Church, she led and participated in prayer groups, Bible studies, and women’s ministry and counseling. She lived out her faith by supporting those facing illness, addiction, and hardship. Karen was deeply committed to ministry and volunteer work with the unhoused, Blount County Jail, Renew Clinic, and Stephen Ministry counseling.

Words cannot fully express the loss of such a beautiful soul. Karen was fierce, loyal, resilient, and compassionate. She touched the lives of many, and her stories and memories will live on in the hearts of all who loved and cherished her. May her soul rest in peace.

Karen cherished many special friendships throughout her life. Her dearest friend since high school, Kim Sanford, remained a steadfast companion through the years. She shared heartfelt conversations and life advice with Kristin Cook, and held deep affection for Anne Totten, Beth Huber, and Debbie, each of whom brought warmth and meaning to her life.

Her family was her greatest pride and joy. She loved watching her grandson Max play the violin and spent many happy hours playing hide-and-seek with Max and Gabe. She loved attending her grandson Jaydon’s basketball games and delighted in park trips with Reese, Jazmine, and Max. Karen also treasured dressing Reese up when she was a little girl. Caring for her grandchildren brought Karen immense happiness—she lovingly rocked each one to sleep and was actively involved in every stage of their lives, never missing a school event, sporting game, or extracurricular activity.

Karen was a devoted and caring mother to her daughter, Misty, who will always carry the certainty of how deeply she was loved. Together, they enjoyed traveling, hiking, shopping, swimming, and discovering new places to eat. Their countless shared memories created a bond that will remain forever in Misty’s heart.

Karen also became a second mother to her niece, Melisa, becoming an anchor for a young girl who lost her own mother and provided a stable and warm home. She raised her with care, compassion, and affection. She enjoyed talking on the phone for hours, having deep conversations, and spending Saturdays eating at restaurants, shopping, and being in each other’s presence. Karen was the best mother anyone could ever ask for.

Funeral services will be held at 7:00 PM on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at Weaver Funeral Home. Family and friends will meet at 10:45 AM on Monday at Oak Ridge Memorial Park for an 11:00 AM interment.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Karen Suffridge’s name may be made to Care Cuts (https://carecutsknox.org/) or Renew Clinic (https://www.renewknoxville.com/), two ministries Karen loved and encapsulated her care and compassion for those who were in need.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Sunday at Weaver Funeral Home, 5815 Western Avenue, Knoxville, TN