Karen Denise Jackson was born on August 8, 1956, in Cleveland, Ohio to John and Rosetta Jackson. The eldest of four children, she led the way. At an early age, her singing voice emerged and she began singing around the house, throughout her school years and was often asked to lead the class in song during school assemblies. She loved all types of music and won various music awards. She had many musical opportunities and was asked to sing with the Cleveland’s Singing Angels and many local gospel choirs. One of her most proudest musical achievements was winning the “Songbird” award in Junior High School.

Karen graduated from John F. Kennedy High School. During these years, she made the Merit Roll, sang in various choirs and helped to form a singing group. Their group sang at all of the JFK talent shows and local talent shows in the city.

After high school, Karen attended The Ohio State University, where she studied opera. A Soprano, she had a wide vocal range, from low to high to dramatic. While there, she gave several opera recitals and often sang with a jazz ensemble. Karen later finished her education at Cleveland State University and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music. She did graduate study work in music and volunteered with the school system teaching music to children.

Karen enjoyed life and after the amputation of her entire leg, she persevered. She continued to drive, travel, attend concerts, amusement parks and water parks. She enjoyed spending time with family, especially grilling, cooking and baking. She would sometimes make unique appetizing dishes. She had enjoyable times with her young cousins, DeAndra, DeLandra, LaNayshia and their children.

Karen married and the marriage ended in divorce. She confessed her life to Christ and later joined the Olivet Institutional Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio. In later years, her health declined and she gradually slowed down from several debilitating health conditions. After fighting a long battle with her health, God called her home early Sunday morning, December 12, 2021.

Karen was preceded in death by her beloved parents John and Rosetta Jackson. She leaves to cherish her memory, sister Regina Jackson and brothers John Jackson and Derwin Jackson. Niece Dasiah, nephews, John, Brandon, Darius (Tamara), Derwin and Denzel. Great nieces, Norri, Miani and Jhene. Great nephews, Tyce, Drew, Jayden, Malakhi, John III, Kyrie and Jaxon. One uncle, Edward Brown and numerous cousins and friends.

The family would like to thank cousin Diedra “Kiesha” Jackson for all of her guidance and assistance and the nursing staff at the Heritage of Hudson and Bella Care Hospice, for their excellent care towards the end of her life.

In Loving Memory

Sister

Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure,

You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure