Karen L. Julien, 68, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026, at Gila Regional Medical Center. She was born on April 5, 1958, in Santa Maria, California.
Karen was one of those rare people who made the world feel a little kinder just by being in it. She was the kindest, most giving, and loving person you could ever meet. Everyone who had the privilege of knowing Karen loved her.
She was a woman of strong and unwavering faith. Her faith was a source of strength especially during the many challenges she faced. Even through three battles with cancer she held on to her faith and faced each day with courage, grace, and a strength that was truly remarkable. Even when she was hurting, she rarely complained. She was a fighter in every sense of the word. Her faith, strength, and love were a testament to the woman she was.
Karen proudly served her country for 20 years, retiring as an Air Force Technical Sergeant from the 189th Air National Guard. Her dedication, strength, and commitment to others were qualities she carried with her throughout her entire life.
But more than anything, Karen was a wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. She loved her family deeply and especially loved all children. She was incredibly intelligent and had a wonderful sense of humor. She was famous for her quick one-liners, dry humor, and perfectly timed comments that could catch you completely off guard and leave everyone laughing. Her humor was one of the many things that made her so unforgettable.
Karen was a loving grandmother who shared a particularly special bond with her granddaughter, Ella. Their relationship was something truly precious, and the love they shared will remain a beautiful part of Ella's life forever.
Karen is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, George F. Julien; daughters Elizabeth Smith and Melissa Julien; grandchildren Ella, Alex, and Alexis; her mother, Rosalind; siblings Diane and her husband Kevin, Greg and his wife Tammy, and Kevin and his wife Colleen; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will miss her dearly.
She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Heather, and two nephews, Michael and Josh.
Karen leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, strength, and memories that will never fade. She was the kind of person who gave so much of herself to others, and the love she shared will continue through everyone whose life she touched. Though she is no longer here, her kindness, her humor, her strength, and her enormous heart will live on in her family and in all those who were lucky enough to know and love her.
Arrangements will be handled by Terrazas Funeral Chapel. There will be a private burial, where Karen will be laid to rest beside her beloved daughter, Heather.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Karen's memory to the GRMC Auxiliary, who have done so much for the patients of Gila Regional Cancer Center where Karen received treatments.
Attn: Auxiliary
Gila Regional Medical Center
1313 E. 32nd St.
Silver City, NM 88061
575-538-4175
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.
