Karen Leigh Kennedy, 57, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Saturday, September 18th, 2021, surrounded by her precious family.

Karen was born on May 29, 1964, in Houston, Texas. Karen was a 1982 graduate of Westchester High School. She graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University with a degree in education.

She was an incredible Mom who loved and adored her children, Kelsey and son-in-law Chris Pate and the cutest granddaughter, Desi: and her son, Jonathan and girlfriend, Tiffany. Her kids were her pride and joy and she loved them with a fierce passion.

Karen always had a joy about her, but when she became a Kiki to sweet Desi that joy overflowed. After spending 30 years in education in the Humble Independent School District, she had just recently retired. Her impact was far reaching as a teacher, coworker, mentor, and instructional coach. She loved her job and has left a legacy of energy, enthusiasm, excellence, encouragement, and love. Karen’s leadership shined not only as an educator but in the many organizations she was a part of. She had a smile that could light up a room with an infectious laugh. She always found the good in situations and in others. She was full of spunk and sass and loved people well. Karen never met a stranger, and she was always willing to lend a helping hand. Her happy place was on the water: Lake Conroe, the beach, a boat, or just hanging out with friends at the pool.
To those who called her friend, Aunt or Momma K, she was extremely loyal and devoted. She was the best mom in the world.

She is survived by her daughter and son in law, Kelsey and Chris Pate, her granddaughter, Desi Leigh; son, Jonathan Schmalhausen and girlfriend, Tiffany Moore; her mother, Margaret Kennedy; sister, Anne Kennedy Kemp; sister and brother-in-law, Lynn and Pat Moore; brother, Brian Kennedy; Nieces and Nephews Oliver and Reed Kemp, Jon and Becca Kemp, Machaela Moore, and Cammie Moore. Friends like family, Kristen and David Dixon and family, Ellen Smith Weaver and family

She was preceded in death and welcomed into heaven by her loving Dad, Larry B. Kennedy.

Karen’s children and family would like to thank friends and family for the outpouring of love and support that has been received during this difficult time. We will carry the light and joy of Karen in our hearts forever.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, October 9th at 1:00 p.m. at Houston’s First Baptist Church, 7401 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77024.

Donations can be made to https://gofund.me/cf2a57a7

All of Heaven is now her dance floor