Karen Hendley

A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Karen lived a life marked by faith, love, and unwavering dedication to those she cared for. She is survived by her beloved children: Jeff (Kim) Hendley, Kelly (Ed) Ruddle, and Susan (George) Wolff; her cherished grandchildren: Lauren (Ben) Ashmore, Scott (Brittany) Hendley, Kyle (Heather) Hendley, Jessica (Steve) Ciaramitaro, Zachary (Ingrid) Ruddle, Britten (Emma) Wolff, and Emmet Wolff; and her adored great-grandchildren: Presley, Brynn, Hunter, Carter, Haylee, Wesley, Maxwell, William, Nova, and Eva. She also leaves behind her dear sisters, Mary Anet Lockwood and Judy Price, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Lucy Parker.

A lifelong athlete, Karen earned a varsity letter in tennis during high school, where she especially loved playing tennis with her sister, Lucy. Later in life, she continued her passion for sports by joining a golf league and regularly playing with friends. She was also an avid and skilled card player, always looking forward to game days at her church, where her competitive spirit and sharp mind shone.

Her family made their way to the Detroit area when Karen was a teen. Professionally, she found success during the automotive boom, serving as an executive secretary at Volkswagen, retiring after 29 years. She was known for her exceptional administrative skills, including her ability to type over 100 words per minute, a rare talent.

Karen was honored to be a charter founding member of Warren Woods Church of the Nazarene (The Woods), where she was a member for over 60 years. She served as church board secretary for more than 30 years, a testament to her dedication, integrity, and commitment to her faith community. She regularly found community in bible studies, women’s groups, exercise class and numerous other volunteer opportunities. If there was a church service or event, Karen was in attendance.

More than anything, Karen loved her family deeply. She treasured time spent with loved ones and especially enjoyed trips back to Tennessee to visit her roots and her extended family. Even in her final hours, she welcomed family and friends to her bedside with encouraging words of love.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 13th, from 10:00am until the time of the memorial service at 12:00pm, at The Woods Church, 14300 East 13 Mile Road, in Warren, Michigan.

The family welcomes donations to The Woods Church in lieu of flowers.