Karen Elizabeth Fowler

In loving memory of Karen Elizabeth Gibbs Fowler 

Karen passed away peacefully on Monday, July 17th, 2023, surrounded by family and friends. She was born on October 10, 1956 in Durham, North Carolina to Esplin Roadyback Gibbs and Mary Ardell Remington Gibbs. 

She was a devoted spouse to James Ronald Fowler, cherishing her partner for fifty years and creating a lifetime of beautiful memories together. 

Karen was a loving mother to Kathleen Fowler, James Ronald Fowler II, Sara Caroline Forrest, Kristina Marie Clemente, Joshua Remington Fowler, Miranda Jean Peterson, and Emily Ardell Fowler. She was also the adoring grandmother to eighteen grandchildren, and great-grandmother to four great-grandchildren. She shared a deep bond with her family, filling their lives with unconditional love, and guidance. 

Karen supported her husband throughout twenty-one years of dedicated military service. Standing by his side through deployments and training, she taught her children the importance of patriotism and loyalty. These values inspired the development of another generation of military families. 

Karen had a variety of passions and interests. She loved music, playing piano, reading novels, and spending time with her beloved dogs. Additionally, she had a strong testimony of the atonement of Jesus Christ, serving many years in the LDS church in a large variety of capacities. She found great peace in the teachings of the scriptures. 

Karen will forever be remembered for her infectious smile, warm heart, and incredible sense of humor. She was known for her ability to take struggles in stride and see the silver lining of all of life experiences. 

One of Karen’s most notable attributes was her generosity. She was generous with her heart, her time, her belongings, and her wisdom. Her quiet nature, and kindness, made others feel at ease. She had a natural ability to see the best in others and help them see to the best in themselves. 

Karen brought joy and laughter into the lives of those around her. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 25th, 2023, at Hudson Funeral Home in Durham, North Carolina. The visitation will begin at 1pm, with services beginning at 2pm. Her burial will be at 3pm, also in Durham, at Woodlawn Memorial Park. Friends are invited to gather, share memories, and pay their respects. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the GoFundMe, Honoring the Life of Karen Fowler. 

Though Karen may no longer be with us physically, her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched. May she rest in eternal peace. 

"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear."