Karen Kaye Patterson

Karen Kaye Patterson, A cherished artist, devoted mother, and loving grandmother, passed away peacefully on February 4th, 2025, at the age of 80, in Sarasota Florida. Her Vibrant spirit and creative passion touched the lives of all who knew her.

Karen was Born April 17th, 1944, in Cincinnati, Ohio to the late Harry Edward and Lillian Ina (Mullikin) Keuffer. Karen graduated from Norwood High School in Cincinnati in 1962 followed by continuing education in Cosmetology. Karen was a resident of Sarasota Florida for 37 years. Karen assisted in the opening of Saks Fifth Avenue at Southgate Plaza in 1996 where she worked as a Sales Representative that had a large following of loyal clients that loved her before retiring in 2013.

Karen also known as Kaye by her siblings was an amazing artist. Not just with paints as a painter or a muralist, but you could ask her to make or build anything and she could do it and as always it would turn out beautiful. She followed in her Great Grandfather's footsteps the late John T Keuffer who was a famous portrait artist in the late 1800’s who was also known for painting circus wagons for Ringling Brothers Circus. Karen found joy in expressing herself through her art. As a mother, she nurtured her children with unwavering love and support, always encouraging them and teaching them so many things that made them who they are today. Her grandchildren adored her infectious laughter and big smile and all the magical stories and fun times they shared together. Karen loved her garden, plants and her dogs over the years. A quote from her granddaughter “I love you more than a tree” because she was always in her garden. Her grandson loved the bedtime stories she would sit and tell him over the years. And as always there were sweets and treats at Grandma’s house.

Karen is survived by her daughter, Kerry Rhodes; and son, Corey Patterson (Kari); her two grandchildren, Trey Garrett and Jade Frye (Dillon); her two beloved great-grandchildren, Maverick and Oaklyn Frye; her three brothers, Barry Keuffer (Donna), Gary Keuffer, and Brent Keuffer; her sister, Cindy Keuffer and many nieces and nephews.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Harry Edward and Lillian Ina Keuffer; and her sister, Janis Faye Keuffer

“Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and the creativity she left behind.”

A private memorial gathering will be held for close family members to celebrate Karen’s life on February 13th, 2025, at 10am, at Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Ave, Sarasota FL, 34232

We appreciate your prayer’s, understanding and kind thoughts during this difficult time.