Karen Lea Lawson died April 20, 2026 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, at the age of 76 years 8 months 8 days. Graveside services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, April 24, 2026, at Hillside Cemetery in Purcell, entrusted to the care of Wadley’s Funeral Service.
Karen was born August 12, 1949, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma to Ernest Homer and Willa Belle (Carson) Luper.
She was raised in the community of Wayne, where she completed her education at Wayne High School in 1967 and pursued further studies with college course work that enriched her lifelong learning.
For three decades, Karen dedicated herself to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, where she culminated a distinguished career as an Administrative Programs Officer before retiring in 2001. Her professional journey was marked by commitment and integrity, qualities reflected throughout her life.
From a young age, Karen cherished a deep affection for horses, joyfully riding bareback in the spirit of the westerns she admired. Her youthful years also echoed with the melodies of chorus singing and the twirling of a baton, showcasing her vibrant spirit and talents. A devoted animal lover, Karen’s heart extended warmly to all creatures—from her beloved duck “Whack” to her faithful dogs, “Gordan and Jayda”—each held dear within her family.
Karen delighted in the simple pleasures of life: enjoying movies, indulging in shopping excursions on QVC and HSN, and savoring culinary experiences at her favorite restaurants. A passionate fan of the band Queen, she found joy in watching the film “Bohemian Rhapsody” time and again, celebrating the music that resonated with her soul.
Her enthusiasm for sports was unmistakable; Karen was a proud supporter of the OKC Thunder, knowledgeable about both player statistics and personal stories, as well as an ardent advocate for the University of Oklahoma Sooners. Known for her warm nature and open heart, Karen never met a stranger and was quick to extend kindness and reciprocity to friends and acquaintances alike. Above all, Karen treasured the moments spent with her family, whose love and companionship remained the cornerstone of her life.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Willa Luper; her sisters, Donna Bielski and Nikki Alexander Craig; her nephew, Joey Bielski; her brothers-in-law, Joe Bielski, Aubrey Dale Craig and Dan Rork.
Survivors include her daughter, Sherry Cagle and John Kelly; her son Randy Cofer and Zita Nainggolan; her sister, Judy Rork; her grandchildren, Chad Willis-Cofer and wife, Ashely, Haley Mayorga, Jessica Cofer and Ryan Reavis and Randi Cofer; her great-grandchildren, Oaklee, Carter, Geri, Angel, Jillian and Samuel; her nieces and nephews, Kerry Alexander and Carol, Todd Johns and Susan, Kristin Alexander and Kim Bilski; and numerous other relatives and friends.