Karen Nanette Martin

In the early morning hours of Monday, December 21, 2020, Karen N. Martin, age 61, of Marion, North Carolina, departed to be with the Lord at Memorial Campus of Mission Hospital in Asheville.  The daughter of the late Nathaniel and Ophelia Swepson Martin Owens, she was born in Marion, North Carolina on April 28, 1959.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, Clarence M. Martin.

A graduate of McDowell High School, Karen attended UNC-Asheville.  Known as a people person, she would have given her last dime just to be able to help someone in need.  She made many friends along her journey.  A member of Addie’s Chapel United Methodist Church, Karen loved to listen to music.  She will be truly missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by a very special companion and friend, Kiffin Rockwell; one brother, Billy Martin (Connie); one sister, Rosa Okeke; a niece that she had a special relationship with, Natasha Martin; Curtis Young, who was like a son to her; and a host of nieces and nephews. 

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Beam Funeral Service with Pastor Walter Pegues and Pastor Denise Forney officiating.