Karen Starks

Born Patricia Karen Sides, on January 8, 1950, to Patricia and Elmer Sides, “Karen” shared a first name with her beloved mother, Patsy. Karen would have a new last name when, as Karen told it, her stepfather married her mom and her. Karen Moore, married Gary Fulks and together they had two handsome sons, Chris and Cory, who are nearly clones of their mom in so many ways. While working in the medical field, a career choice that mirrored her strong calling to serve others, Karen met and married the love of her life and as she told it, the “30-year-old bachelor”, Don “Stick” Starks. Together they would enjoy a long, happy marriage, sharing everything, even meals at restaurants, until Don’s passing in 2020.  

A self-proclaimed “simple Texas girl”, Karen’s demure personality could be misunderstood as ambivalence. However, Karen was anything but passive or uninterested. She simply had a gentle heart and chose to routinely defer her own preferences to others’ desires, as her only wish was to make others happy. She only wanted to be included in fun and was always up for an adventure, no matter where it took her.  

Rooted in faith, Karen enjoyed participating in activities in her local Baptist churches, often singing in the choir, attending Bible study even during the weekdays, and without fail, extending herself to anyone in need, even if it meant significant sacrifice of herself.

Though Karen wore a few names throughout the course of her time on earth, it was evident that none meant more to her than “Mom” and “Nana”.  She adored her family, those born in or adopted into her clan, never observing any difference between those with shared DNA and those connected by marriage and/or friendship and loving everyone the same. “Nana” was adored by her children, grandchildren, in-laws, other family and friends. She made it her priority to ensure that her time was spent investing in people, never missing events that were meaningful to them.  

Lover of foliage and animals, Karen took every opportunity to recognize a pretty flower, unique tree and active little squirrel, or cute dog that may have caught her eye or stepped into her path.  

A selfless, dedicated, and kind person, Karen’s soft brown eyes sparkled like the moon on the ocean. Soft spoken but also resolute in her commitment to God, family, and goodness, Karen is loved and will be missed dearly by those who had the privilege of knowing her.  

Karen is survived by her sons, Chris and Cory, their spouses, several grandchildren and great grandchildren, and a sister.