Karen Lynn Kessler, 74, passed amongst family on the morning of November 8, 2023, at Charleston Area Medical Center Hospital.

Born on October 2, 1949, in Morgantown, West Virginia at Vincent Pallotti Hospital, she was the daughter of the late Billy-Jo (Sayre) Woodford and Walter Smith and granddaughter of David and Sophia Smith. Retiring in 2020 from PACE in Morgantown, WV, she dedicated most of her working life helping people with disabilities gain occupational training. After retirement, Karen devoted her time to her family, friends, and pets, sharing love, kindness, joy, and many delicious meals. Karen will be remembered for her smile, laughter, and positive outlook on life.

Surviving are Karen's brothers, Gary Smith of West Virginia, Bobby Woodford and his wife Lisa of Indiana, and Joey Woodford and his wife Keely of Georgia; Karen's son, Chris Rose and wife Maria of California, and her twin daughters, Amy Kidd and late husband Lee of West Virginia, and Kimberly Rose of West Virginia; six grandchildren, Ryan Rose, Mark Williamson, Morgan Brackenridge, Andrew Bierer, Nicholas Bierer, and Kole Kidd; six great-grandchildren, Ava Brackenridge, Mylee Williamson, Ben Brackenridge, Kolton Williamson, Charlie Rose, and Carrie Brackenridge; many beloved friends; a dog, Teddy, and cat, Ellie.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages a kindness be paid forward in concordance with Karen's nature and world view.

Per Karen's wishes, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.