Karen Elizabeth Horne

A Celebration of Life and Faith for Karen Elizabeth Horne, 65, will be held at 2 pm on Friday, October 2, 2026 at Washington Street United Methodist Church Christ Chapel followed by a reception in the Wesley Room. The service will be officiated by Rev. Alston Lippert. Dunbar Funeral Home on Devine Street is assisting with the arrangements. Karen was the only child of the late Richard D. and Barbara Martin Horne. Karen’s warmth and spirit will be deeply missed by the many friends who loved her dearly.

Karen graduated from the College of Charleston and taught school for eight years in Richland School District One. She joined Governor Carroll Campbell’s office in 1989 just before Hurricane Hugo hit South Carolina. She was awarded the Order of the Palmetto for her service to the state. She later joined Dr. Barbara Nielsen’s senior staff at the SC Department of Education and worked closely with the SC legislature to promote the state’s education agenda.

Karen was an active member at Washington Street United Methodist Church and taught Sunday School classes for many years. She was also a member of the Junior League of Columbia. Whether attending games in person or watching on TV, Karen remained a diehard Gamecock fan.

Memorials can be made to Washington Street United Methodist Church, 1401 Washington Street, Columbia SC 29201. To access the Christ Chapel use the Bull Street entrance. Parking is available in the lot on Bull and Washington Streets.