Karen Ann Willison
Karen Ann Willison, 56, of Charlotte, Michigan, a generous and faithful woman who found joy in serving others, died on July 28, 2026. Karen was born on January 15, 1970, the daughter of Jack and Shirley (King) Willison.
Karen graduated from Olivet High School with the Class of 1988. Quiet and compassionate by nature, she dedicated much of her life to helping others, especially the elderly. She also volunteered by assembling care packages for military families, always looking for ways to encourage those in need.
A woman of deep faith, Karen cherished attending women’s retreats and was an active member of Nashville Baptist Church before later joining South Church in Lansing. Her relationship with God was the foundation of her life and guided her caring spirit.
Karen had a lifelong love of books. She enjoyed not only the stories themselves but also learning about the authors who wrote them, appreciating the people behind each book. She also looked forward to Friday night bowling league with friends and found simple pleasures in life, whether capturing the perfect photograph on her iPad or taking pride in keeping her lawn neatly mowed.
Karen faithfully served the people of Michigan as a data processing clerk for the Bureau of Elections, where she worked for more than 25 years. She was known for her dedication, kind heart, and warm hugs, which brought comfort and joy to those around her.
Karen will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Karen is survived by her father, Jack Willison and stepmother, Linda; sister, Lori (Tim) Gerard; brother, Mike (Judy) Willison; and nieces and nephews Chris (Jenn) Gerard, Kevin (Lydia) Gerard, Josh (MaKala) Gerard, Kari Gerard, Ana Willison, Alex (Hailey) Willison; great niece, Sarah Gerard; and great nephew, Paul Gerard. She was predeceased by her mother, Shirley.
Friends are encouraged to support Karen’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Memorial services are Monday, Aug. 10, 2026, at 11a.m. at Pray Funeral Home Gardens in Charlotte with Pastor Deano Lamphere officiating.
The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Karen’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Nashville Baptist Church, South Church of Lansing or your charity of choice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.