Karen Scott
Karen Ann Scott, 61, of Jefferson City, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2025, surrounded by family.
Karen was born in Hannibal, Missouri, the beloved daughter of Thomas and Cecilia (Campbell) Whalen. She attended Helias High School and went on to earn her associate’s degree in nursing from Lincoln University. Karen dedicated her career to caring for others through her work at several hospitals throughout Missouri and the Dialysis Clinic, where her compassion and gentle spirit touched many lives.
Outside of her professional life, Karen found great joy in music, crafting, and creativity. A true fan of classic rock from the seventies and eighties, she often surrounded herself with the songs that inspired her. She was known among family and friends for her remarkable crafting talents—earning her the affectionate title of being “overly crafty.” Whether she was writing, arranging flowers, or creating handmade treasures, Karen poured love and care into everything she made.
Karen’s greatest pride and joy was her family.
She is preceded in death by her husband, David Scott, and her daughters, Samantha Scott and Danielle Scott. She is survived by her loving parents, Cecilia and Deacon Tom Whalen; her sons, Chris Coker (Stasha) and Josh Scott (Britney); her daughters, Trisha Winterstein, Kristi Shackleford (Derek); and Holly Scott; her brothers, Mark Whalen and Rich Whalen; and her sisters, Terri Gentzsch (Dave), Betsy Bartow (Tom), Patty Smith (Doyle), Rebecca Bass (Josh), and Judi Mendoza (Luis).
She also leaves behind a cherished legacy through her grandchildren—Katlynd Strange, David Jorgensen, Nora Coker, Clara Coker, Alexa Scott, Brylee Scott, Londyn Scott, Carson Scott, Dontá Johnson, Destiny Libbert, Davion Brantley, Jaiden Munsterman, Bret Keeney, Owen Bisges, Barrett Bisges—and four beloved great-grandchildren. She also has numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
Visitation is Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Proto-Cathedral of St. Peter Catholic Church from 9:00 am to 10:30 am, followed by a Memorial Mass at 10:30 am officiated by Msgr. Robert A. Kurwicki, Diocesan Administrator.
Inurnment will be private for immediate family.
Per Karen’s wishes, everyone is invited to join her Celebration of Life at the Brazito-Honey Creek Lions Club Saturday, November 8, 2025, starting at 4:00 pm and will continue until the lights go out.
Karen will be remembered for her warmth, creativity, and unwavering love for her family. Her kindness and joyful spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be made to Covenant House.
Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main St.; Jefferson City, MO 65109. (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com