Karen Renee (Sharpe) Koen

Karen Sharpe Koen, 56, of Abilene, Texas, passed away peacefully at her home on June 14, 2026.

Karen was born on November 10, 1969, to Bob and Janie Sharpe. She attended Merkel High School, where she graduated and formed many lifelong friendships. Throughout her life, Karen was known for her kindness, unwavering faith, strong work ethic, and deep love for her family and friends.

For 34 years, Karen faithfully served at Lawrence Hall Chevrolet, where she became known for her dedication, loyalty, and exceptional work ethic. She took great pride in her work and built countless friendships and lasting relationships with coworkers throughout her career.

Karen shared a special bond with her longtime partner and companion, Craig Brothers. After more than 30 years of friendship, their relationship grew into a loving partnership that brought joy, laughter, companionship, and steadfast support to both of their lives.

A longtime member of Wylie Methodist Church, Karen's faith in Jesus Christ was evident to everyone who knew her. Her relationship with the Lord was the foundation of her life and guided the way she loved, served, and cared for others. She faithfully led a Sunday School class, participated in a local Worship + Workout group, and formed many lifelong friendships through her church community.

But of all the roles she held in life, none brought her greater joy than being "Gammy." Being Gammy was one of her greatest blessings, and she treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren. She was a constant presence in their lives, attending sporting events, school ceremonies, and milestones both big and small. Her grandchildren knew they were deeply loved, faithfully prayed for, and endlessly supported.

In recent years, Karen embraced new experiences, including joining a sewing class, learning a new craft, and attending a weekly yoga class. She enjoyed staying active through her church community, spending time with friends and family, and investing in the people she loved most.

Karen was preceded in death by her daughter, Tamara Koen; her father, Bob Sharpe; and her former husband, Terry Koen.

Karen is survived by her son, Derek Koen and wife Melanie of Tuscola; her mother, Janie Sharpe of Abilene; her longtime partner and devoted companion, Craig Brothers of Tuscola; her brother, Bobby Sharpe and wife Lisa of Little Elm, Texas; her sister, Mandy Seay and husband Bobby of Brownwood, Texas; her grandchildren, Connor, McKenna, and Kamberlyn; numerous nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. She is also survived by the family she came to love through Craig, including Chase Brothers, Miranda Gray, Cadence, Charlie, and Olivia.

Though her passing leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of those who loved her, her family finds comfort in knowing that the faith she lived by has now become sight. Karen's legacy of love, service, generosity, devotion to family, and unwavering faith in Christ will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know her.

Visitation for Karen will be help from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, June 19, 2026 at Wylie Methodist Church in Abilene, Texas. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 20, 2026 at Wylie Methodist Church, with Jeff Hatcher officiating. Burial will be at 2:00 p.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery in Merkel, Texas.

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