Karen Eason

Karen Eason, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished matriarch, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, in New Carlisle, Ohio. Born on June 12, 1957, in Middletown, Ohio, Karen lived a life marked by unwavering devotion, boundless love, and an indelible spirit that touched all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Karen’s journey was one of dedication and accomplishment. A proud graduate of Tecumseh High School and Clark County Joint Vocational School in Cosmetology, she continued her pursuit of knowledge by earning a Bachelor's Degree in Business from Clark State Community College. For 35 years, she lent her talents as a data contractor and secretary to multiple independent contractors at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, where her meticulous work ethic and professionalism stood as a testament to her character.

More than her career, Karen was the glue that held her family together—the matriarch whose gentle strength and positivity illuminated every room. Revered for her wisdom, grace, and perfectionism, she generously shared her wealth of knowledge, guiding younger generations on the path to a successful and fulfilled life. Her spirit was a fusion of selfless giving, heartfelt care, and an authentic, sometimes delightfully ornery nature that inspired warmth and laughter. To those she loved, she was the most incredible mother imaginable, always ensuring her family felt cherished and special.

Karen was also deeply artistic—her creativity blossomed in her love for cooking, gardening, painting, poetry, engraving, anything that she felt passionate about. These passions were not just hobbies but expressions of her nurturing soul, weaving cherished memories with those she held dear.

She is survived by her daughters, Dawn Ball (Bill) and Laura Kimmel (Paul); daughter-in-law, Billie Ann Eason, who were her pride and joy and who carry forward her legacy of love and strength. Her grandchildren—Christopher (Natalie), Samara, Bailey (Gavin), Gabriel, Aidan (Sienna), Riley, Daven (Alana), Jordan, Brayden, Ashton, Shayla, Kara (Sam), Marlin, Robin, Mya, and Micah—along with her great-grandchildren Shawn Michael, Atlas, Josiah, Millicent, Eleanor, Lilith, and Jayden, were the light of her life and beneficiaries of her unending affection. She is also survived by her sister, Mary Jones; the father of her children, Michael Eason; and many other family members and friends who all hold her memory dear.

Karen’s passing also marks the loving remembrance of those who went before her: her grandparents Thelma and Jewel Smith; her parents Dolly and Eugene Smith; her son Shawn Michael Eason; her brother Curt Smith; her life partner Ron Hedges; step-daughter Heather Ward; step-sons Timothy Hedges and Tony Brown; and her granddaughter Brittany Graham and grandson Erin Graham.

Karen Eason was, without question, one of a kind—a woman whose love was pure and expansive, whose strength was unwavering, and whose presence felt like home. She leaves behind a legacy woven with laughter, wisdom, and compassion that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Though her physical presence has left this world, her spirit will remain forever in the hearts of her family, friends, and every life she touched. She was loved by all who had the honor to call her theirs, and she will be profoundly missed.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  Arrangements by Newcomer Funeral Home, North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Road.  To share a memory of Karen or to leave her family a special message, please visit www.NewcomerDayton.com