Karen Boyer Smith

Karen was born and raised in Silver Spring, MD, alongside her three brothers and one sister. She attended Wheaton HS during her formative years and later earned her undergraduate degree in Education from West Virginia University in 1982. Following the birth of her son, she relocated to Center Valley, PA, where she served as a special education assistant. During this period, she pursued her master's degree in speech pathology at Lehigh University, graduating in 1989 through night classes held at the Centennial School.

Karen's career unfolded at the Allentown School District, where she dedicated herself to various roles, including speech pathology, elementary school special education, and ultimately high school special education at William Allen HS, retiring in 2013. Despite the physically and mentally demanding nature of her work, Karen found immense joy in her profession and developed strong bonds with her students, often visiting their homes for tutoring during off hours.

Following retirement, Karen relocated to Reston, Virginia, to be closer to her family. She remained an active participant in the churches she joined over the years, engaged in various local support groups, and faithfully attended her grandchildren's sporting events. Karen's life was a testament to her generosity, compassion, and selflessness. She loved her family more than it seemed to be possible.

Karen is survived by her son, Matthew, and two grandchildren, Aria and Miles, along with the many individuals she considered family and friends.