Karen Lynn (Nelson) Peters, age 82, passed away peacefully on her farm in Newport, Pennsylvania, on Wednesday, February 4th, surrounded by her loving family.

Karen was born in Bowie, Texas, to Thelma and H.T. “Shorty” Nelson, and was raised in Denver City, Texas. She was the cherished baby sister of five brothers, lovingly teased and fiercely protected.

A proud graduate of Texas Tech University, Karen went on to become an award-winning first-grade teacher. Decades later, her former students still tell stories of the teacher who believed in them first

On December 20th, 1986, Karen married the love of her life, Steven F. Peters. Together they built a beautiful family and shared their lives with their children: Alyson Brown and her husband Daniel Brown; Stanley (“Bud”) Peters and his wife Glenda (“Sis”) Peters; and daughter-in-law Susan Peters.

Karen and Steve were lovingly known as “Ma and Pappy” to their grandchildren: Katie Peters, Courtney Brown, Lydia Barlup, Emily Peters, Austin Brown, Iris Quigley, and McKenna Brown. And to their great-grandchildren Landon Brown, Rhett Barlup, and Nash Barlup.

Karen had a lifelong love of music, nature, and a well-timed practical joke. In her teenage years, she was a cheerleader, flute player, and state-champion volleyball player at Denver City High School. A true fashion icon, she was a well known to the staff at her local Macy’s.

A devoted Catholic, Karen had a deep love for the Eucharist and lived with a childlike faith in Christ.

Karen was preceded in death by many loved ones, too numerous to count. In addition to her immediate family, she leaves behind her beloved Texas family and cousins, with whom she shared countless treasured memories. She also leaves behind her devoted canine sidekick, Bruiser Peters.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, February 7th, at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 811 Shermans Valley Road, New Bloomfield, PA 17068.
Viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Bernard Catholic Church.

Though our hearts are broken at her passing, we take comfort in the Lord, who gives eternal rest to the faithful.