Master Sergeant (RET) Karen Johnson, 68; a devoted soldier, a proud American, and a loving mother who passed away in her Elizabethtown home Monday, March 2, 2026.  

Karen served for 26 years with distinction,  receiving countless awards and medals before retiring as a Master Sergeant after tours at Fort Riley, Fort Bliss, two assignments in Germany, a posting in Korea, and deployment to Desert Storm, among other duty stations. Her steady leadership, quiet courage, and unwavering commitment to her fellow soldiers and family left a lasting mark on everyone who knew her. We remember her discipline and strength, her warm smile after a long day, and the way she taught us what service truly means. Today we salute her life, her service, and the legacy of honor she leaves behind. Karen Johnson, a beacon of warmth and joy. Karen was a coffee connoisseur, not just for the love of the beverage but for the conversations and connections it brewed. Her kitchen was a haven of delightful aromas, where she spent countless hours cooking and baking. Karen enjoyed reading but hands were rarely still, as she found joy in crafting. Her crafts were not mere objects but embodiments of her love and care, which she generously gifted to all around her.

Karen was a passionate individual, not just in her interests but in her approach to life. She faced challenges with courage and saw opportunities for growth in every obstacle. Her selflessness was evident in the way she put others before herself, always ready to lend an ear, a hand, or her heart but the most cherished moments in Karen's life were those spent with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a son, Jason Johnson; her father, Dale Rafferty; her mother, Joan Rafferty; a sister, Regina Gilliland; and a brother, John Rafferty.

Survivors include two daughters, Rebecca Riddle of North Carolina, Allison Brangers(Gabriel) of  Elizabethtown, KY; six siblings: Larry Rafferty of Jackson, OH, Roger Rafferty Wellston, OH, Thomas Rafferty Jackson, OH, Naomi Davis Wellston, OH, Patrick Rafferty Wellston, OH, Imogene Webb Wellston, OH; ten grandchildren: Katherine Shell, Brayden Shell, Lenay Golden, Jaden Johnson, Ava Ponder, Reese Ponder, Jada Johnson, Jordan Johnson, Justin Johnson, Julian Johnson; her former husband, Dale Johnson; and a host of extended family & friends.

Visitation will be from 11:00 AM until 2:00 PM, Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Chism Family Funeral Home.

Funeral services for Ms. Johnson will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, March 14, 2026 at the chapel of Chism Family Funeral Home. Burial with military honors will follow at Hardin Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. One of the many charities to which Karen gave regularly.