Karen Kay Denton Parnell, 81 years of age, of Pampa, Texas, passed away on Thursday, January 19, 2023, after a lengthy battle with cancer while surrounded by those who dearly loved her. Karen was born on January 27, 1941, to Joe and Margaret Denton in Willow, Oklahoma.
Until the age of 68, she had worked as a skilled secretary at various locations. Although small in stature, Karen was a mighty force to be reckoned with and wouldn’t shy away from any task. She was honored to care for her parents while they were still living in tasks such as roofing their house, the lawncare, grocery shopping, giving haircuts, and even the daily errands, all while working her full time job.
Karen had a heart of gold and giving to anyone in need came second nature to her. Having a friend in Karen, meant you had a friend for life and she never failed to keep in touch no matter the miles between them. She loved to dance and her cooking was amazing, but most of all, she was an avid animal lover and took care of countless strays that ventured her way.
She had an incredible ability to remember the birthdates of all her children, grandchildren and even great- grandchildren! They were Karen’s pride and joy and they in turn, adored her. Her love, compassion and tenacity will be missed by all who knew her.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Amelia Waldrop, our angel sent from heaven, for the love and care she showed to mom during this difficult time. We would also like to say “thank you” to her
nieces, Sherry and Donna as well as their families for their excellent care.
Those who awaited her arrival into eternity were her parents and two sisters, Betty and Shirley.
Those left to carry on her legacy are her children, Phyllis Stafford and husband Tony of Ventura, California, Royce Gee, Jr of Shawnee, Oklahoma, Donnie Winegeart and wife Cathy of Lefors; her twin brother, Bud Denton and wife Liz; a sister, Sandy Travis; six grandchildren, T.J., Amber, Tiffany, Tabitha, Erin and Holly and eight great-grandchildren, Duke, Avery, Kinley, Bryson, Quinton, Jacob, Justice and Kimber.
Per Karen’s request, there will be no services. The family has entrusted the cremation care of their loved one to Winegeart Funeral Home.
Should donations be a preference, please consider giving to Pampa Animal Welfare Society (P.A.W.S.) PO Box 2095, Pampa, TX 79066-2095 in her memory.
To leave words of love and sympathies for the family on Karen’s Book of Memories, please visit www.winegearfuneral.com.
