Karen Louise James

Karen James, age 58 of Lampasas, passed away Sunday, March 9, 2025.

Memorial services will be held by her family at a later date.    

Born on January 17, 1967 in Heidelberg, Germany, Karen was the fourth of five children born to the late Donald and Beverley Jacobsen Stephens. Growing up in a military family, she moved frequently across the country before her family settled in Gatesville in 1980. After graduating from Gatesville High School in 1985, Karen pursued her lifelong dream of becoming a registered nurse by attending Central Texas College, where she graduated in 1992 with an Associates Degree.

She always had a passion for helping others, even if it meant plucking cactus from someone else’s skin. Known for her creativity and generosity, she would readily give her shirt off her back to assist those in need. Karen had a particular fondness for estate sales, always eager to find the perfect bargain. Her ability to connect with people was remarkable; she never met a stranger and had a unique way of making everyone feel comfortable in her presence. She was an amazing mother who was always dedicated to her beliefs, strong enough to stand up for what she believed in, and soft enough to support others.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Scott Stephens. She is survived by her children, Jacob James and wife, Brittany, Joshua James, Sierra James, and Justin James; brother, Michael Stephens; sisters, Cindy Bloom and husband, Jim, Elizabeth Stephens-Hale and husband, Steve; and granddaughter, Makayla Wood.