Karen Louise (nee Halbert) Lee of House Springs, Missouri was born Oct. 31, 1961 in St. Louis, Missouri to Welbon “Babe” Halbert and Naomi Ruth Baker Halbert and passed away May 27, 2026 at the age of 64 years, 6 months and 27 days.
She grew up in the St. Louis area, but went back to the family farm at Cherryville for visits.
She graduated from Southwest High School in 1980 and later graduating from Southeast Missouri State University in 1984, majoring in social work and where she was a member of the National Service Fraternity of Alpha Phi Omega.
She was employed with a non-profit residential care center, NextStep for Life, for several years, working with the mentally handicapped.
She enjoyed cross-stitching and cooking, such as Creole dishes and desserts. She also enjoyed shopping.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Welbon and Naomi Halbert; and sister, Linda Seiler.
She is survived by a son, Patrick (fiancé Sophia Carson) Oglesby Jr. of House Springs, Missouri; companion of several years, Patrick Oglesby Sr. of House Springs, Missouri; one brother, Gary (Athena) Halbert of Villa Ridge, Missouri; special cat, “Bandit,” other relatives and friends.
Visitation was held from noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at the Britton-Bennett Funeral Home in Steelville, Missouri.
Celebration of Life was held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at the Britton-Bennett Funeral Home in Steelville, Missouri with Rev. Bob Coleman officiating. Special music of “Amazing Grace” and a medley of songs were sung by Bob and Carol Coleman.
Private family inurnment will be held at New Dillard Cemetery in Dillard, Missouri at a later date.
Arrangements under the direction of the Britton-Bennett Funeral Home in Steelville, Missouri.
