It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Karen Y. Briggs on November 19, 2024.

Karen was born on March 8, 1943 to Forest "Shorty" and Virginia Maxine Lacy.  She was a 1961 graduate of Arthur High School and then went on to earn her Bachelor's Degree in Education from Eastern Illinois University in 1965.

Later that year, she married Ralph W. Briggs on July 30, and had two children; Jason Briggs and Erynn Briggs Chouinard both of Tuscola.  She was the proud and loving grandmother of Jarrett and Travis Chouinard. Karen is also survived by her sister: Jill (Curt) Hall of Tuscola.

Karen began her teaching career in third grade at the South Ward Elementary School in Tuscola and went on to teach at North Ward and East Prairie in various teaching roles, including the gifted program and special education.  Her students were all very special to her.  Her dreams of becoming both a teacher and a mother came true, and she lived them to her fullest.

After Ralph's passing in 2006, Karen went on to take vows with Ken Roedder on May 30, 2016.  Each year on that date they reaffirmed their vows to each other.  Throughout her life, Karen loved Roy Rogers, Mickey Mantle, country music, and watching movies and game shows.  She was an avid Chicago Cubs and Illini basketball fan.  She was also a gifted athlete and softball and tennis were her favorite sports.

Karen was a member of the United Church of Christ for many years and was a beloved Sunday school teacher.  She had a great faith in God and lived a selfless life.  She had a smile and a kind word for every single person she ever met.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, PO Box 1000, Dept. 142 Memphis, TN  38101-9908

Per her request, private family services will be held. Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be shared via hilligossshraderfh.com