Mrs. Karen Lynnette Thomas Coleman

Karen Lynnette Thomas Coleman
March 29, 1950 - September 7, 2025

Karen and her twin sister, Sharon were born in St. Louis, MO to Corloyd and Gloria Thomas. Karen was older “by ten minutes.” Soon after birth, the family moved to New York City. She graduated from Andrew Jackson High School and enrolled in Atlantic Union College in South Lancaster, MA. There she met her “Southern Gentleman”, James Coleman, a native of Atlanta, GA. They were married in 1973 after her graduation with a degree in Nursing. The couple moved to Hinsdale, IL where she began practicing as a Registered Nurse. After a brief assignment on a Medical/Surgical Unit, she transferred to the Operating Room where she spent the next forty-two years. During her career, she held licenses in Illinois, Washington, DC, Maryland, Georgia and North Carolina. She developed a reputation for high standards of nursing practice and fierce advocacy for the welfare of her patients. She retired from the OR at UNC Johnston in 2017.

Upon retirement, Karen became more active in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Smithfield. In addition to singing in the choir, she was a member of the Altar Guild, Episcopal Church Women and the local chapter of the King’s Daughters.
She developed a love of music at an early age, as both parents were musicians and music teachers. She played piano, sang and often attended the choral music festivals on the North Carolina coast.

Karen is survived by her husband James of 52 years, her sister Sharon, their daughter, Donna, several cousins and countless dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to:
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 218 S. Second Street, Smithfield, NC 27577 or SECU Hospice House C/O Johnston health Foundation, P.O. Box 1376, Smithfield, NC 27577.
Viewing/Visitation:  Tuesday September 16, 2025, at Walter Sanders Funeral & Cremation Services Chapel 302 S. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield, NC 27577 from 1:00 pm until 6:00 pm.  
Funeral Services: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 218 S. Second Street, Smithfield, NC 27577 Wednesday September 17, 2025, from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm. 
Link for the livestream via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85009050955?pwd=vAWtBLIyPRJ9xKl7jVY9rbfdnr09Zn.1
Starts at 11:00am until 12:30 pm Wednesday September 17, 2025
Meeting ID: 850 0905 0955
Passcode: 851451
Interment: Knollwood Cemetery 4362 US-70 Business Clayton, NC.

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Family or Deceased Name: Karen Coleman
Your Name: Natchez Triumphant SDA Church
Email: delithom6@yahoo.com
Message: Elder Coleman we are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. We are sending heartfelt prayers and condolences! You are in our thoughts and prayers. May the memories of Karen bring you strength, comfort and peace! Hang in there! All the best wishes for you and your family. Prayerfully yours! Natchez Triumphant SDA Church
Date: 6013921138

Family or Deceased Name: Karen Coleman
Your Name: Teresa Chappell
Email: chapter083@yahoo.com
Message: Mr. Coleman and Donna, I am so sorry to hear of Karen’s passing. I never saw her without a smile on her face or a pleasant word that she shared with you when you were in her presence. She will be truly missed. She was such a wonderful person. Prayers for all of you during this time. Teresa
Date: 09102025

Family or Deceased Name: Karen Colemen
Your Name: Ralph and Rose Dawkins
Email: dawkinsr@comcast.net
Message: Our hearts are sad to know that someone who we crossed paths with in this life is now gone. We will remember Karen’s beautiful voice as Ralph sang with her in choirs at Atlantic Union College. We send our deepest sympathies to you James and your family. We pray that God sends peace to your hearts as we wait the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior. Sincerely, with Ralph and Rose Dawkins
Date: 978-808-7198

Family or Deceased Name: Mrs. Karen Coleman
Your Name: Amy Hamby
Email: a83101@gmail.com
Message: Sending prayers and love to the family. Mrs. Karen was a caring and kind person, with such a sweet soul. She was a dedicated and excellent Nurse, who truly cared about her patients. She was an inspiration to all of us!!



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