Karen Pulley

Karen Pulley of South Texas lived a life filled with friendship, laughter, and a deep love for family and community. Born in Falfurrias, Texas, Karen was raised in South Texas and graduated from Hebbronville High School, where she was a proud member of the National Honor Society and played the flute in the high school band.

She went on to attend Texas A&I University in Kingsville, Texas, where she earned her degree and formed many lifelong friendships. Karen later began her career with Conoco Chemicals, which later became Vista and then Sasol. She first worked in purchasing, but eventually found what she often called her dream job in customer service, where her warm personality and genuine care for people allowed her to thrive.

Karen had a remarkable gift for connecting with others. Like her father, she truly never met a stranger. Whether she was visiting with a neighbor, catching up with friends, or welcoming someone new, Karen made everyone feel valued and at home. Her greatest joy came from spending time with the people she loved. She cherished the many girls’ trips she shared with high school friends, college friends, family members, and neighbors, creating memories and laughter that will be treasured forever.

Closer to home, Karen enjoyed gathering with her dear friends in the neighborhood to play Mah Jongg and Bunco, moments that often ended with long conversations and plenty of laughter. Her home and her heart were always open.

Karen also had a special love for her dogs through the years. Britany, her Brittany Spaniel, was the first of many beloved companions. Later came her Labrador Retrievers Daisey, Sophie, and Bailey, and most recently Kirby, the doodle who brought her so much joy.

Karen’s life took a beautiful turn when she was introduced to her future husband, Mike Pulley, by her cousin. Their connection quickly grew into a lasting love, and the two were married on St. Patrick’s Day in 1984. Together they built a life rooted in love, friendship, and family.

Karen was preceded in death by her father, Herbert Hanson; her mother, Dorothy Hanson, née Pitman; her sister, Sandra Wilkinson; and her brother in law, Russell Pulley.

She leaves behind her loving husband, Mike Pulley; her sister, Patty Hanson; and her sister in law, Raye Ann Pulley. She is also survived by her stepchildren, Stephanie Sassi and Chris Pulley and his wife Jennifer.

Karen’s love and influence extend to many nieces and nephews, including Kent Wilkinson; Stacey Naquin and her husband Andy; Al Cassidy and his wife Kristen; Emily Barthelemy and her husband Jeffrey; Melissa Cox; and Megan Smith.

She was also a proud grandmother to Tyler Sorensen, Harly Stewart and her husband Cody, and Ryan Pulley.

Karen will also be lovingly remembered by her grand nieces and nephews Kylee, Kyndal, Kolton, and Kelton Wilkinson; Laura and Karen Naquin; Ellen Cassidy; Connor Barthelemy; and Nora and Eleanor Cox.

Karen’s kindness, warmth, and ability to make people feel like old friends will never be forgotten. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, and love that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Visitation will be held at Katy Funeral Home, 23350 Kingsland Blvd, KATY, TX 77494, US, on March 10, 2026, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. The Funeral Service will be held at Katy Funeral Home, 23350 Kingsland Blvd, KATY, TX 77494, US, on March 10, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

The Committal Service will be held at Morton Cemetery, 401 N. 2nd Street, Richmond, TX 77469, US, on March 10, 2026, from 1:45 pm to 2:00 pm.