Karen Petty Felton, loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Born October 2, 1955, in St. Louis, MO and departed this earth on February 10, 2022.

Karen always knew two things her entire life: she loved animals, and she loved her Lord. Beginning as a young child, she faced many hardships but the relationship with her Lord and Savior was her guiding light. She took this love and applied it to every aspect of her life. If you were ever in Karen’s presence, you felt this beaming love.

Karen had many wide-ranging accomplishments throughout her life. She worked with and cared for animals on every level, from the medical field to being an awarded dog trainer. Among her many talents, she was a cabinet maker, a painter, a sculptor, a published author, and an educator.

She was a cherished elementary school art teacher who worked not only within the school district but within the community. Her talent and love for teaching carried over to her very popular Weight Watchers meetings where she was a top leader for many consecutive years. 

In her Sunday school classes, she engaged the children and truly made learning fun. During this weekly teaching hour, the children would monitor her time to see how fast she could recite the books of the bible backwards. The children were always impressed with her speed and accuracy.

At the young age of 37, Karen began experiencing abnormal movements in her hands. Only a few years later came the diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease. She gathered her strength and continued inspiring adults and children for as long as her body would allow. Having to accept an early retirement, she began pouring herself into family history. Within 5 years, she was able to trace her lineage back to the 1700’s.

In 2005, this passion resulted in a full 160-page bound book for her future generations to regard as part of their history. In March of 2011, she was able to publish a book of her personal works comprised of poems, paintings, and sketches titled “Whispers From a Loving God.” Leaving yet another legacy on this earth.

In her last hours, Karen was surrounded by her children and loving friends. Her light will truly shine through anyone who had been graced by her presence. She is now safely in the arms of her Lord.

Karen is survived by her two children; Elizabeth Felton (Bryan Lang), Michael Jr. (Ashley) Felton, two grandsons; Dominic Felton and Charles Lang, father of her children; Michael Felton Sr. and sister; Patty Petty. Karen was preceded in death by Earl Petty (Father), Wesley Petty (Brother), Jeffrey Petty (Brother) and Bobbie Hall (Mother).

A service to celebrate Karen’s life will be held at Wellspring Family Church, 5293 S. Lindbergh Blvd, St Louis, MO 63126 on March 12, 2022, at 10am. In lieu of flowers the family has requested for a donation to be made to CHAMP Assistance Dogs.

1 Corinthians 15: 42-45

“So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body.”