Karen Black

Karen Black

Age 35

Of Cumberland Gap

Karen Annette Black, 35, passed away Friday, February, 15, 2008 after a valiant fight with cancer.

She was born May 14, 1972 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The daughter of the late Kenneth Black and Mrs. Kathy Black, who survives. Karen began making her mark on the world at a young age, spreading her bright personality and mind as a great young student winning many scholastic awards. Karen received her bachelor of science degree in English from Lincoln Memorial University and her Master's in Education from LMU.

Karen taught English at Claiborne County High School. She loved to read and teach young people to enjoy literature, follow their dreams and listen to their hearts.

She is survived by her mother, Mrs. Kathy Black of Cumberland Gap, her beloved son, Michael Edward Jones II of Speedwell, best friend and sister, Melanie Black of Speedwell. Special friends Penny Behling and Debbie Hunley, Ella Corder and Tracy Elliott, as well as many other friends and relatives, and Claiborne County High School faculty and students that loved and supported Karen.

Funeral services 2:00 p.m. Sunday at Reece Valley Chapel with Rev. Marvin Simmons officiating. Music by The Underwood Grove Baptist Church Singers.

Burial in the Greenhills Memorial Gardens.

Pallbearers: Chris Behling, Mike Hurst, James Proffitt, Shawn Peters, Bill & Mike Harris.

Visitation 7-9 Saturday at Reece Funeral Home and Valley Chapel 869 3651, 626 4249, or www.reecefh.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the college fund of Karen's son, Michael Edward Jones II at Citizens Bank in Harrogate or to the Claiborne County High School Beta Club for the scholarship fund set up in Karen's honor.