Obituary of Karen A. Smith

Karen Anne Smith, a devoted wife, loving mother, caring sister, and proud "Nana," passed away on, November 4, 2023, at the age of 65.

She was born to her parents, Michael and Amelia, in Cambridge, MA, and grew up in Winchester. Karen graduated from Winchester High School, and later pursued her passions for Child Development, nail styling, and dental assisting, earning an Associate's Degree.

Her life was a testament to her unwavering love for her family and her joyous spirit. Karen’s most cherished role was that of a mother to her three boys, Dana Michael, Cory, and Jason, who were her pride and joy. She later took the role of Nana and cared for Damien and Julie multiple times a week which she loved ever so much. With her beloved husband, Duane, whom she first met at digital in 1985, they did everything they could as parents to provide a life of excitement and joy, they made sure family came first. They got married in 1987. Karen's holiday spirit was infectious, made sure to celebrate every holiday and decorate the house per occasion. She made sure every year as a family, they would cut down a Christmas tree. When it came to gift-giving, she always had an idea of what people needed or wanted, ensuring that her boys received something truly special. In her leisure time, Karen found solace in her love for travel. She frequently visited Virginia Beach, York Beach, and North Conway, creating lasting memories with her family. She made sure that every year the family would be able to vacation and would drive to Virginia Beach. Karen was never one to shy away from challenges. She fearlessly conquered roller coasters at every theme park her family went to, showing her boys that there was nothing to fear in life. Karen will be remembered for the radiance she brought into every room she entered. Her positive energy made her the life of any gathering, especially during the holidays.

Karen was the beloved wife of Duane Smith of Burlington. She was the loving mother of Dana Michael Smith of Burlington, Cory Smith of Burlington, and Jason Smith and his wife Jessica of Nashua, NH. Karen was the caring Nana to Damien and Julie Smith. She was the caring sister to David Smith of Lowell, Neil Smith of Dorchester, Laurie Manning of Billerica, and the late Michael Krea Jr. and his late wife Donna. A visitation for Karen will be held on Friday, November 10, from 4 to 7 PM at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington, MA 01803. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 11, at 10 AM at the Sullivan Funeral Home, with a burial to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Karen's GoFundMe at www.gofundme.com/f/karen-mama-nana