Karen (Parks) Baillon

Karen Parks Baillon, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on May 11, 1942, in Pekin, Illinois, Karen lived a life marked by quiet strength, deep curiosity, and an unwavering love for her family.

As an Army wife for 26 years, Karen navigated life with resilience and grace, supporting her husband through decades of military service. Together, they built a loving home across many places, eventually settling in Fairbanks Alaska, where they lived for over 30 years and she found joy in the beauty of her garden and the peace of the outdoors.

A retired school librarian, Karen nurtured generations of young readers with her passion for books and learning. In retirement, she delighted in her role at Barnes & Noble—a perfect continuation of her lifelong love of reading and connecting with others through stories.

Karen found deep joy in life’s simple pleasures: a cup of hot tea, a well-tended row of vegetables, and the treasured moments spent reading to her grandchildren when they were young. Her warmth, kindness, and gentle presence left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.

Karen is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Larry Baillon; her brother, Joe Parks; her daughter, Lisa Minyon, and son-in-law, Jim Minyon; her son, Paul Baillon, and daughter-in-law, Vicki Baillon; and her cherished grandchildren, Trisha Baillon, Parker Baillon and his wife, Maria Baillon.

Karen’s legacy lives on in every book shared, every flower in bloom, and every memory held close by those who loved her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A committal service to honor Karen’s life will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 1:15 PM to 1:45 PM at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, (1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209). A celebration of her life with family and friends will take place immediately following the ceremony at the Towers at Park Lane. (1 Towers Park Lane, San Antonio, TX. 78209).

Gifts in lieu of flowers can be made to the Alzheimer's Association or to your local library.