Kari Lynn Lee

Kari Lynn Lee, a beloved, adventurous, and kind-hearted soul, passed away on the night of Friday, July 11, 2025, at the age of 63. Born on June 6, 1962, in Anthony, Kansas, Kari’s life journey (by way of Kansas and Fort Worth) led her to the Houston area as a child and that’s where she lived the rest of her life.

In her early professional life, Kari worked in art retail and leather crafting, achieving recognition through instructional appearances on public television and authoring a book titled "Gorgeous Leather Crafts: 30 Projects to Stamp, Stencil, Weave & Tool." Her career further expanded as she became a skilled sales and architectural representative for several construction companies, contributing to the design and construction of significant projects such as schools, office buildings, and hospitals.

In addition to her professional achievements, Kari pursued her passion for leather crafting by starting her own business, Kari Lee Leather, where she sold her unique, creative, and beautifully crafted leather-based jewelry and other items.

Kari was a loving and caring wife and mother, a consummate professional, a creative and talented artist, and a lover of life. She is survived by her husband, Leo Furman, their children—her daughter Tiffani and granddaughter Teagan, and son Trey—and Leo's daughters Madeleine and Kerry. She also leaves behind her mother Ellen, sister Dina, brother Larry, nieces and nephews, and her wonderful friends, including her "soul sister" Cathy, Susan, Kevin, Lauren & Dan, Melanie, and many others. Kari always put family first, was wholly committed to their well-being, and passionately protective of her "crew."

Despite experiencing a medical crisis that ultimately proved insurmountable, Kari's spirit and love for life remain a testament to her character. While there will be no funeral or formal service, a celebration of her life will be organized by and for close family and friends. In lieu of flowers, Kari would appreciate donations made in her name to favorite charities, particularly those supporting victims of domestic violence and animal welfare causes, especially for pets in need due to negligence or abuse.