Karen Wilkerson

Karen Denise Wilkerson was born in Dallas, Texas, March 17, 1971 and departed October 23, 2018 at 12:20 am. She grew and developed into an extraordinary and exceptional woman of faith. She was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt and cousin and became a friend to all.

Karen earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas and a master's degree in educational psychology from Baylor University, Waco, Texas. She worked for the Texas State Agency of the Aged and Disabled in Waco, Texas as well as the Upward Bound program at McLennan Community College, Waco, Texas. She has mentored hundreds of local high school students who had and have the desire to become the first in their families to attend college. She was named director of the Upward Bound program at Abilene Christian University in 2006. She was a leader in the national community of TRIO professionals, having been elected and served as president of the Texas Association for Special Student Services Programs. She mentored with the likes of a mother's love that could not be questioned and she always went an extra step to assist them in reaching their goals. Colleagues respected her as a passionate professional and a trusted guide for young people in Abilene.
Her beautiful smile and kind spirit along with her loving ways will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to be in her presence. Her spirit will forever be etched in the hearts, minds and souls of everyone that had the opportunity to meet her. She was very determined, diligent and wanted only the best for her family and others. She showed so much perseverance in the accomplishment of her goals and endeavors. Her demonstration of unconditional love for family and friends was a great example to all who encountered her. 3
Karen was an active member of Minda Street Church of Christ, Abilene, Texas where she served diligently along side her husband Gerald, who is an elder.

Karen is survived by her husband, Gerald Wilkerson , and their children, Victoria and Donovan; Johnnie Talton (mother), Joel Talton (father), Joel Christopher Talton (brother), Johnny Morris (grandfather), Yvonne Mooney (aunt), Marion Warren (aunt) and a host of beloved relatives and friends.

During these past few months we were able to see the true fight in Karen as she battled a chronic illness. We never saw her quit, we never saw her give up and we were able to see her faith on display. We believe in prayer and we hoped for a medical miracle and we watched as God extended your time with us through medications and medical care.

This world was not your home as you were just passing through and we know and trust you are now resting. God has a plan for you that no longer requires you to struggle, fight, or suffer. We thank Him for allowing us to have had the opportunity to be in your presence during your visit here with us. Visitation will be available Sunday 6-8 pm @ Elmwood memorial where we encourage visitors to come and say your words for the life of Karen. The celebration service will take place Monday, 12:00 @ Minda Street Church of Christ.

Visitation

Elmwood Funeral Home
5750 US Highway 277 S
Abilene, TX  79606
Sunday, October 28, 2018
6:00 - 8:00 PM

Service

Funeral Service

Minda Street Church of Christ
701 Minda St
Abilene, TX  79602
Monday, October 29, 2018
12:00 Noon

Cemetery

Elmwood Memorial Park
5750 US Highway 277 S
Abilene, TX  79606