Karen Toni Steward

Our beloved mother, Karen Toni Steward (Nia Michele Oliver), was born on November 3, 1947, in Prescott, AZ, and resided in Alamogordo, NM. She peacefully went to be with the Lord on January 4, 2025, at the age of 77.

She was a cherished mother, grandmother, foster mother, sister, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who loved her. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of spiritual children, whom she nurtured and guided in the strength of the Lord. Now, she is free to run, sing, and rejoice, free of pain, and restored to perfect strength and beauty in her Heavenly home.

Karen was preceded in death by her father Edward H. Steward, her mother Ruth Steward, her son-in-law Jairam David Ramkalawan, her foster daughter Tina Louise Casper, foster grandson Brandon Casper and godson Peter Duran.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory: children, Micah Steward (Mandalin) and Shawna Ramkalawan; grandchildren Amir, Malia, Lilliana, Brianna, Julian, Gracelynn, Niara, Anthony, four great grandchildren; foster grandchildren, Joey, Melissa and Amy; sister, Diana J. Dunn; niece Nicole Martinez, several nephews; best friends, Maria Acosta, Rosa Sanchez, Anita Rey, Martha Treto, Jenefer Pollock; and a host of other loving relatives, godchildren, friends and neighbors.

Karen will be fondly remembered for her deep love of the Bible, her passion for history and nature, her dedication as an avid reader, and her gift for teaching. For all who knew her, she was a resilient woman who faced and triumphed over countless challenges throughout her life. She taught us all how to stand in faith and to look to our Lord as our source in all things. Karen will live on in our hearts forever.

A heartfelt private family celebration of life will take place at a later date to honor her memory. To continue her legacy of compassion and care, the family kindly requests donations to a local foster care center in your area, in lieu of flowers, to support children in need and bring hope to their lives. We would also like to offer a special appreciation to those who offered their support and kept our family in prayer.