Karen Ann (Nelson) Smith, 69, of Muncie, IN began rejoicing with her Heavenly Father Thursday, February 12, 2009 at Ball Memorial Hospital after an extended illness. She was born on February 12, 1940 in Gordon, WV, the daughter of Clarence and Ruby (Hager) Burgess. Karen attended school in Danville, WV. On September 28, 1972, she married James Robert Smith.
Karen enjoyed gardening and spending time with her family.
Karen is survived by her loving husband of 36 years, James, of Muncie, IN; three daughters, Donna Small (husband: Jimmy) of Marion, IN; Lesa Gregory (husband: Mac) of Fort Wayne, IN; Karen (Suzie) Nelson (special friend: Randy Baize) of Muncie, IN; two sons, Bruce Smith of St. Louis, MO, David Smith of Las Vegas, NV; three beautiful grandchildren, Jessica Sullivent-Oester (husband: Chip) of Augusta, GA; Trey Gregory of Fort Wayne, IN; and Evan Gregory of Fort Wayne, IN; sisters Roma Maggard of Muncie, IN and Martha Lehman (husband: Clifford) of Muncie, IN; two brothers Clarence Burgess (wife: Helen) of Muncie, IN and Charles Burgess (wife: Jody) of Muncie, IN; and many loving nieces and nephews.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents and several sisters and brothers.
A memorial service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday February 14, 2009 at Garden View Funeral Home, 10501 North State Road 3 Muncie, IN. Pastor Denny Helton will officiate the service. Burial will follow in the Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Muncie. Calling for friends and family will be Saturday February 14, 2009 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Garden View Funeral Home.
Preferred memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society, 1216 Meridian St, Anderson, IN 46016 or the Animal Rescue Fund, 1209 W Riggin Rd, Muncie, IN 47304. If you would like to sign the online guest book and send condolences to the family, you may do so by visiting www.gardenviewandgardensofmemory.com