Karen graduated from Sulphur High School and lived the majority of her life in Carlyss, LA surrounded by her family. She was a stay-at-home mother and wife which gave her great pride.
Family history was a great interest to Karen; discussing and researching genealogy, antiquing and cooking were some of her favorite pastimes. Her collection of antique dishes and housewares were the envy of many, and her love of Cajun cuisine was never doubted.
Karen is survived by her husband, Lonnie Nickles; four children: Misty White (Scott), Michael Higdon (Cheryl), Jonathan Higdon, and Sarah Higdon (Kelly); mother, Jackie Dugas Ellender; brother, Jay Ellender (Connie); her grandchildren: Gunnar Higdon, Renee White, Allie Higdon, Grace Higdon, Kolt Klein and Koraline Klein; and great-granddaughter, Mia Butterfield; and two nephews.
She is preceded in death by her father, James W. Ellender; maternal grandparents, Mary and Dallas Dugas; and paternal grandparents, Lucius and Alphado Ellender.
Plans for a Celebration of Life are pending and will be announced at a future date.
