Karen Gardner

Karen Gardner passed away on February 11, 2026, just one day shy of her 58th birthday, with the same fighting spirit that defined her life.
One year ago, Karen was given a terminal diagnosis and a prognosis of six to eight months. True to who she was, she refused to let that define her. She fought with courage, grit, and unwavering determination — giving her family a full year more of love, laughter, and memories. She never backed down.

Karen was a beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, companion, and wife. She believed in living life boldly and with a fighting spirit. She had an adventurous heart, a fun-loving soul, and a personality that filled every room. Her crazy stories, spontaneous moments, and fierce love for her family will be remembered and retold for generations.
She spent many years as a caregiver, pouring herself into the service of others. Later, she became an active member of the corrections community, continuing her commitment to strength, resilience, and dedication in her work. No matter the role she carried, Karen showed up with heart.

Above all, Karen loved her family deeply. She cherished her companion, Benji Sorrells, and was incredibly proud of her sons, Bradley (Kristen) Piper and Joshua (Paradise) Piper. Her grandchildren — Gabe, Kaylee, Kami, Caleb, Keith, Kendra, and Willow — were her joy and legacy. She is also survived by her loving parents, James and Anita Gardner; her sister, Betty (Billy) Harper; her brother, Terry (Rebecca) Gardner; and multiple nephews who will forever carry her memory.

Karen leaves behind a legacy of courage, adventure, resilience, and fierce love. Though her fight here is finished, the impact she made will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of Karen’s beautiful life on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at New Hebron Baptist Church, 4914 Forgy Mill Road, Dunmor, Kentucky 42339. This will be a time of shared memories, fellowship, and honoring the love, faith, and legacy she leaves behind in all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Estate of Karen Gardner-Perez, c/o Bradley Piper, 117 E. 18th Street, #2280, Owensboro, Kentucky 42303, to assist with final expenses, with any remaining funds going to aid another person in their fight against cancer — a cause that reflects Karen’s strength and heart.