Karen graduated from high school in 1964 and went on to enroll in the LPN program through Yale New Haven, where she began her journey of caring for others. Her career culminated in her role as a paraeducator for special needs children at Issaquah High School in Washington, where she continued to make a difference in the lives of many.
On June 16, 1973, Karen married the love of her life, Charles "Chuck" McLeod. Together, they built a loving family with their son, Shawn Llewellyn McLeod, and daughter, Cori Ann McLeod. Karen was also a cherished grandmother to Abigail "Abby" Hope McLeod.
Karen had a deep appreciation for the beauty of God's creation and was a strong advocate of all animals in nature. She enjoyed time in her garden and being with her family and dogs. She also had a passion for reading and live theatre, which brought her much joy.
Her most fervent prayer was for everyone to just get along, a sentiment that resonated deeply with her life in the "Be Kind" Capitol of Kentucky. Her legacy of kindness and compassion will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.
Karen is survived by her husband, Charles Llewellyn McLeod; her son, Shawn Llewellyn McLeod and his wife Jennifer; her daughter, Cori Ann McLeod; her granddaughter, Abigail Hope McLeod; and her brother, Dayton D. Holmes. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dayton William Holmes and Isabel May (Dodge) Holmes.
A Celebration of Life for Karen will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 11am at Covenant Church, 909 W Jefferson St, LaGrange, KY 40031 with a time of memorial visiting from 10am until the start of the service. A meal of fellowship will immediately follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Arrow Fund or the Humane Society of Oldham County, reflecting Karen's love for animals.
As we remember Karen, let us think of her when we come across Ecclesiastes 3:1-22, a passage that held special meaning for her.
