Karen Elaine Parker, age 62, of Portsmouth, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus. Born on October 6, 1963, in Portsmouth, she was the beloved daughter of the late Oscar C. Burns and Ollie Mae Brown Burns. Karen was a dedicated professional who retired as a paralegal.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Parker, and her brother, Cecil Burns.

Karen is lovingly remembered by the families of her three brothers: David Burns (wife Sharon King-Burns; daughters Davina Burns-Peters and Dana Burns-Purdie). Jerry Burns (wife Beth Schmidt-Burns, Son-Jerry Burns Jr., Daughters Amber Burns-Kleiman and Faith Burns-Schobert). Dennis Burns (wife Kathleen Crum-Burns, Son Timothy Burns, Daughters Denelle Burns-Veny and Bethany Burns-Avalos). Karen's loss is also mourned by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many cousins.

Karen was supported in the last years of her life by her companion Jeff Shales, his daughter Angie, his son Randy and their children and grandchildren. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brant Funeral Home in Sciotoville. Her life and memory are cherished by all who knew her.