Karen Anne Hargrove

Karen Anne Vernon Hargrove, 58, of Hopkinsville, passed away at 4:48 p.m. on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, in a tragic car accident.

She was born on April 22, 1966, in Logansport, Indiana, the daughter of John and Rosemary (Grace) Vernon, both of whom have passed away.

Karen graduated from Logansport High School in 1984. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Manchester University in North Manchester, Indiana, and later completed her Master of Arts in Education. With over thirty years of experience in the classroom, Karen was a dedicated educator who was particularly passionate about working with students with disabilities. She was a strong advocate for her students and their families. Most recently, Karen transitioned to the role of media specialist, where she ensured that all students had access to the library and its resources.

More important than her position as an educator, was her role as a mother and grandmother. Family was always her top priority, and she cherished nothing more than being together with all of them. Lila Kate, her only grandchild, was the light of her life. Being “Grams” was her favorite title.

Karen is survived by her three children: Lauren (Thomas) Akers, Gallatin, Tennessee, Garrett Hargrove, Stillwater, Oklahoma, Karoline Hargrove, Gallatin, Tennessee and granddaughter, Lila Kate Akers, Gallatin, Tennessee. Siblings include Vicki (William) Byrd, Larry (Lora Leigh) Vernon, Bruce (Andrea) Vernon, all of Logansport, Indiana, and Jon (Diann) Vernon of Whitestown, Indiana, and several nieces and nephews. Karen is also survived by her partner Jeff Johnson. She was preceded in death by one brother, John E. Vernon, Jr.

Please join the family on Monday, December 9, 2024, to celebrate the life of Karen. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with the service following in the Sumner Funeral and Cremation Lakeside Chapel. Karen will be buried with her parents in a private graveside service at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the North Todd Elementary School Library, 7300 Greenville Road, Elkton, Kentucky 42220. For more information, please contact Principal Laura Boley at 270-265-4460.