With her loving family by her side, Mary-Karen Copeland Kellum, 79, was welcomed into eternal rest on May 3, 2026, the very same day her precious mother (Nonnie) was twenty- two years ago.
Born on August 2, 1946, in Washington, D.C., this most amazing woman lived a life marked by kindness, determination (also known as stubbornness), and an unwavering devotion to the people and things she loved most.
Mary-Karen was a woman with a gentle spirit of remarkable strength beautiful inside and out. She dedicated much of her life to education, both as a teacher and a lifelong student. She went by many names to include Karen, Miss Mary, MK, Momar, Grammie, Aunt Mary-Karen, and Mimi but the name she was most proud of was Mom. Above all else, Mary-Karen cherished her daughter, Heather-Noelle, who was the greatest joy and pride of her life. She was a proud “Mom” to so many especially Chery-Anne Jolly (Charles, Anna-Grace, Evan).
Mary-Karen had a unique kindness about her that touched everyone she met. She was at her core a helper, someone who always found a way to lift others up! MK’s unwavering faith in Jesus Christ has sustained her through her life, and she now rests peacefully in the arms of our Lord and Savior.
Mary-Karen was a voracious reader who could lose herself in a book for hours. She loved music, singing, her daily devotionals, and her church. Her evenings were never complete without Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. She had a special place in her heart for her cat Oliver and her beloved Highland cows, which brought her endless delight.
MK was also a very proud “Mimi” to Alex, devoted “Aunt Karen” to Amanda Marie and Emily Taylor and felt immeasurable joy with their beautiful new babies in our life, Jaxon and Delaney. Karen also loved her BFF (as she would call her) of 40+ years, the incomparable Miss Mike. Momar also loved being a second mom to Kimmie and Felicia since the awesome 80’s.
Mary-Karen is survived by her daughter, Heather Kellum, and husband Tom Wood. Her sisters Patricia Fannin (our angel Elvie), Robyn Copeland and brother Robert Copeland and wife Shara. She was predeceased by her mother Edna Pearce Rothgeb and stepfather Lewis Rothgeb and her father Robert Copeland.
We would love to acknowledge our family of caregivers who treated Mom with kindness, love, and dignity over the years to include, Van, Audrey, Robin, Kathy, Brandy, Joanne, Pearl, Nessa, Wendy, Elisa, Brenda, Aneesa and others. Without your absolute kindness, these last years would have been even more difficult. You all are angels on earth and deserve a raise!
Condolences may be left online here.
“Hey, Soul Sister” love you more… always and forever Momma. God is Good.
