Karen Darlene Strong

Karen Darlene Strong, age 61, of Nixa, Missouri, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on September 1, 1963, to Albert and Amanda (Swearengin) Bird, Karen grew up with a joyful heart, a giving spirit, and a deep faith in the Lord that guided her throughout her life. 

Karen attended Hillcrest High School, where she was a proud member of the volleyball team. As a young girl, she cherished the time spent helping her father with his landscaping business, a testament to her strong work ethic and dedication to family.  

Karen had a close relationship with Christ. She loved engaging in in-depth conversations about her faith with her family, and her devotion to the Bible was unwavering. One of her proudest moments was sharing her faith with her grandmother, who accepted the Lord as her Savior. 

Karen was known for her kind and generous nature. She never met a stranger, and her warmth and joy shone through in her role as a greeter at Sam's Club, where she worked for twenty years. She was recognized as Employee of the Month, a well-deserved honor that reflected her love for people and her gift for making everyone feel seen and appreciated. 

Karen's heart was drawn to the beauty of country life. She delighted in caring for her many wild pet friends, including opossums, skunks, and other wildlife that visited her home. Her love for animals extended to her cherished cats and dogs, who were her constant companions through the years. 

The outdoors brought Karen peace and joy. She found solace in fishing, camping, and simply being surrounded by nature. Whether sitting by the water with a fishing pole or sharing stories around a campfire, Karen's love for the simple pleasures in life was evident to all who knew her. 

Karen's legacy is one of love, faith, and generosity. She was a devoted daughter, a loyal friend, and a beloved member of her community. Her laughter, her giving heart, and her unwavering faith in God will be deeply missed but forever remembered. 

Karen is survived by: one brother, Bryan Bird; one sister, Lisa Phillips (Lenny); five nieces, Elisa Mitchell (Tim), Brandy Waite, Amand Jones (Tray), Amber Inlow (Dakota), Rachel Vaden (Carter); four nephews, Randy Waite, Aryk Phillips, Nathan Phillips and Chris Bird (Melinda and many great nieces and nephews.  

Karen is preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Amanda Bird.  

Arrangements are under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa and cremation rites will be accorded to Adams Crematory.