Karen Sanborn

Karen Sanborn, 76, of the Complete Care at Arbors nursing home In Toms River, NJ, passed away on March 25, 2026, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. She was born on November 4, 1949, in Jersey City, NJ, where all her grandparents lived, and parents grew up. The Sanborn family moved to Fanwood, NJ, for Karen and her sister to attend school there. Karen graduated from Scotch Plains – Fanwood high school in 1967.

Karen is survived by her sister, Gail Sanborn, as well as many beloved cousins. She was predeceased by her parents, Helen and A. Berkley Sanborn.

Karen retired after 24 years spent working for Foodtown in Toms River. She missed working as the company closed this store. She was appreciated by the customers from town who relied on her to know where everything was in the store.

Karen was a member of the First Baptist Church of Toms River (now New Life Church) for over 20 years and loved the fellowship she found there. She actively participated in weekly prayer groups plus really enjoyed the twice weekly volunteer work sessions at the church’s food pantry.

She loved to travel and had special trips to Alaska, Tunisia with the church, and to the 390th Bomb Group Museum in Arizona with the World War II Air Force descendants’ group. She also loved animals and cared for two pet cockatiels for over 20 years. She loved making crafts and was willing to join in on any creative project.

Karen had an outgoing, welcoming, and generous nature to all. She was known for her big smile and being consistently photogenic. She will be missed by her family, friends, and nursing home staff.

Visiting hours will be held from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Thursday April 2, 2026 at Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home 26 Mule Road Toms River, NJ 08755. A funeral service will be held at 5:30 pm. Burial will be private. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.quinn-hoppingfh.com.