Karen Elaine Noll

On Thursday, March 16, 2023, Karen R. Noll, loving wife, mother, and sister passed away at the age of 56. She was born to Patricia and Dave Ruff in New Jersey and met her husband, Michael, while studying in Trier, Germany. Dancing through life together for more than 33 years, they started their family in Lawrence, Kansas, before moving to Valdosta in the Fall of 2000.

Karen earned her B.A. at Clark University, her M.A. at the University of Kansas, and her S.L.P.D. from Valdosta State University (VSU). She was passionate about her work as a speech language pathologist (SLP) and mentored young SLPs at VSU for more than 14 years. Her work at Head Start and St. John’s School also gave her great pleasure.

Karen enjoyed travelling and discovering natural places with her family, was deeply committed to her community, women’s rights, and the environment, and a proud member of Christ the King Episcopal Church. All those who met her will never forget her beautiful spirit and radiating smile.

Cancer took her too soon. Her last wish was for those who knew her to celebrate life and to keep building the beloved community Martin Luther King dreamed of by actively working for peace and justice in her memory.

Karen is survived by her husband, Michael, her two children, Sophia and Jonathan, and her siblings Jude and Phil Ruff.

A memorial service for Karen will be held on Friday, April 28 at 2pm at Riverview Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to LAMP, Living Bridges Ministry, or by planting a tree in her memory.

Condolences may be conveyed online at www.mclanecares.com. Carson McLane Funeral Home