Karen Sue Shelton passed peacefully on January 16, 2020 in Kansas City, Missouri at the age of 56.
Karen is survived by her mother, Lois F. Howard; her sister, Carla Kay Lister; her sister, Rebecca A. Peterson; her husband, Billy J. Shelton; and her children Chandel A. Shelton, Ariana R. White, Taran A. Shelton, and Joran A. Shelton. She is preceded in death by her father, Dale E. Howard; and her brother, David R. Howard.
Karen was born on April 22, 1963 in Maryville, MO to Dale E. Howard and Lois F. Coones. She graduated from University of Missouri in 2003 with a Master's degree in Library and Information Science, and also obtained a Bachelor's in Elementary and Special Education. She married Billy Shelton, in 1985. Karen spent most of her career as a teacher and librarian in the Kansas City School District, teaching and nurturing students with disabilities. Once retired from the school district, Karen began assisting adults with disabilities at Easter Seals, where she worked until she began her fight with cancer.
She was the most patient and kind-hearted person on this planet. She was a wonderful mother, wife, teacher, and helper to all humankind. She worked tirelessly for students and adults with special needs her entire life. She touched so many people, all in such a positive way. Karen was always the most dependable person both at home and at work. A lot of people truly relied on her in many ways. She will be greatly missed, especially by her husband and children.
A memorial is scheduled for January 25, 2020, 11am at Finey Baptist Church in Deepwater, Missouri, with a potluck reception to follow. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Karen Shelton’s life. In lieu of flowers, monetary gifts are appreciated to cover remaining medical bills but are not necessary. Please consider making a donation in her memory to the charity Variety KC, in honor of her work with children and adults with disabilities
