Karen Louise Brown, 64, of Salem, Virginia passed way at her home on Thursday, June 1, 2017 after a long illness.

Born May 21, 1953 in Shreveport, LA to Glenna Hope Brown and the late Earl M. Brown and raised in Williamson, WV, she was an accomplished pianist and retiree of Norfolk Southern Corporation. She attended the University of Cincinnati and received her Masters at Mercer University in Georgia.

Surviving are her sisters Susan B. Frederick, Cassie N. Smith (Jeff), Terri J. Simpkins (Chris); and brother, John H. Brown (Paula). Also surviving are nieces Ashley M. Brown, Kimberly J. Beverly, Rachel H. Frederick, Marissa J. Bono, and Abigail H. Simpkins; nephews, Bradley E. Bono and John D. Frederick; great niece, Emmeline Brown; and great nephew, Caleb Hosier.

A memorial service will be privately held.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Roanoke Valley S.P.C.A., 1340 Baldwin AVE NE, Roanoke, VA 24012.

Special thanks to John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home and Crematory, Salem.