Karen Roxann Richards

Karen Roxann Bice Richards, 71, of Limestone, Tennessee, went to be with her Lord on Thursday, July 4, 2024, after an extended battle with her health, at the Johnson City Medical Center.

Karen was born into the loving home of Grover Aurbin Bice and Bettie Jane Ward Bice on December 15, 1952 in Jacksonville, Florida.

“Rocket Ann”, as she was lovingly called, was a much beloved daughter, wife, mother, and mamaw.

She moved around and lived in various places in her life, from Florida to Maryland, then to California, even living in Europe and Africa at times; but no matter where lived, she made it a home that was always warm and inviting. Karen was able to travel to many locations and made many memories along the way. She enjoyed exploring new places, camping, fishing, boating, swimming, and simply being around water. Memories of her cookouts by the pool, river, or ocean, grilling and floating, are cherished by her family. She loved her family most of all and loved making memories with them every chance she had. Whether it was just playing with her great-grandchildren at Chuck E. Cheese or simply taking the time to listen to problems that only she could understand, she was always showing how much she cared. 

Karen loved her animals. Be it pets or people, she was always willing to take in those who had no other place to be. She was loved by many and befriended everyone. 

Her home church was Cherry Hill Baptist Church. There she was able to make many friends, who will miss her greatly. Karen will be missed by people she probably didn’t even know that she had impacted, and many of those that she had a hand in shaping.

Along with her parents, Karen is preceded in death by three brothers, Audie, Rusty, and Lenny.

Those remaining to cherish her memory include: her loving husband, Bob Richards; one daughter, Tina Sparks; one son, Kevin Sparks; four grandchildren, Rusty, Dakota, Courtney, and Ashley; four great-grandchildren, Max, Athena, Kyle, and Hesher; two brothers, Steve and David; and one sister, Kristall.

A visitation for family and friends is scheduled from 5:00 pm till 6:00 pm on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at Morris-Baker Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin following the visitation at 6:00 pm.

A committal service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at Cherry Hill Church Cemetery. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E Oakland Avenue Johnson City, Tennessee 37601, is honored to serve the family of Karen Richards. 423-282-1521.