'A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.' Karen Foran Dempsey, was just that to her family, the community of Framingham, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and beyond. Sadly, Karen died suddenly at the age of 54 on December 24, 2020. Born and raised in Framingham. Karen spent her entire life advocating for equality for those with disabilities. She was a graduate of Marian High School in 1985, and Regis College in 1989 with a bachelor's degree in sociology and communications. A member of Framingham Town Meeting for nearly two decades, she co-founded Framinghams Disability Commission in 2002 and served as its chair until 2019 when she was elected to the Framingham School Committee. Karen also served on the Consumer Advisory Committee of the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority and the MetroWest RIDE Service. She also was a clinical instructor at Tufts University School of Medicine, and worked as a disability consultant. Family first for the Foran Dempsey clan, and Karen is survived by her husband Mark, her twin sons William and Joseph, her mother Anne Foran, her siblings, her identical twin sister, Kathy Foran & her husband Vinny Ubaldino, Janet Leombruno & her husband John, and Edward Foran & his wife Susan, her brother- in-law Steven Dempsey & his wife Jennifer, her nieces and nephews, Anthony, Nicholas, Alexandra, and Raymond Bertone, and countless lifelong friends. Karen was predeceased by her dear father Edward Foran. Considering current health restrictions, Karens family will honor and remember her life with private services. A celebration of her life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in her name may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, www.arthritis.org. Arrangements by the McCarthy, McKinney & Lawler Funeral Home of Framingham. For online tributes or to share a memory with Karen's family, kindly visit: www.mccarthyfh.com.

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Published by MetroWest Daily News on Dec. 30, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Karen Dempsey

Sponsored by McCarthy, McKinney & Lawler Funeral Home.

14 Entries

Linda Crager

December 26, 2023

It does not seem possible that Karen has been gone three yrs now. She is so missed by her family and everyone that Loved her so much. She was a Champion to so many people who looked up to her. She is very missed I know she is heaven and beautiful . Love, Linda Crager

Susan Huang

December 23, 2023

I will always remember Karen´s beautiful smile! She was so welcoming and friendly to everyone. She was a true blessing and is missed.

Susan Huang

December 23, 2022

It´s hard to believe a year has passed without sweet Karen. She is a beautiful mother, wife, friend, sister and daughter. She blessed us whenever we saw her, always a smile on her face and warmth radiating from her heart. She is so missed but she is still with us. She is love. What a wonderful example for us all. If we love like Karen, we´re all better for it. To Will and Joe, even though we don´t live in Framingham any longer, we remember you and know how much your Mom loves you. Carry her love and love others like she did. Your journey in life got much harder unexpectedly. We believe in you both and love you just as you are. Bobby was blessed to have friends like you in his life and he still remembers you. He has a picture of you all together from Stapleton up in his room. He now thinks those were some of the best days of his life! Full of laughter and fun! With love, Susan Huang

Roberta Bowen

January 25, 2021

I enjoyed many good times with Karen over the years, she was funny, great personality, and didnt let anything bother her. We all had fun with her sisters and family, and I saw her often at Framingham State back in the day. She will be surely missed. Love you Karen!!
My thoughts and prayers to her entire family. Xo

Susan Huang

Sent Flowers

Susan Huang

January 2, 2021

Our family is so saddened to hear that Karen has passed. She was such a beautiful and good person who had a genuine love for everyone. Her smile and laugh was contagious. She is still a light that shines brightly. Her legacy is unmatched and the world is a better place because of Karen. We won’t think of her as resting in peace. We will think of her running down the streets of gold in heaven, and maybe even doing a cartwheel or two. To Mark, Joe and Will: you have lost the most precious person. She loved and respected each of you greatly. Please be comforted in knowing that you are a part of her and she is a part of you. Love and prayers to you all. Steve, Susan, Daniel and Bobby Huang

Paul Ryan

December 31, 2020

To Kathy, Vinny and the Foran family, I offer my condelences and prayers on your loss. - Paul

Linda Crager

December 31, 2020

Anne, Mark, and her wonderful family, My heartfelt deepest sympathy to all you who Loved Karen so much. Karen was a strong, independent, smart and beautiful person, who did so much for so many people. I meet Karen and Cathy when they were toddlers coming in the Beauty shop while I was doing Anne’s hair. They were just adorable. I have followed there life and all the Foran kids , through talking to Anne and her sharing great stories . What a full life Karen lead despite all her challenges. She is an inspiration to all who knew her. I feel lucky to have known her.We have lost a true hero and Heaven is blessed and kinder having her. My Love and sympathy to all, Linda Crager

December 30, 2020

To Anne, Janet and Kathy ~
So sorry to read of Karen's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
John Acton
Framingham

Barbara Carroll

December 30, 2020

Thank you for your years of advocacy work for people with disabilities. Deepest sympathies to your family and friends.

Kathleen Leombruno

December 30, 2020

Run with the Angels sweet girl. And sleep in Heavenly Peace... We love you so very much.

CONIGLIO and DIFILIPPO

December 30, 2020

Sending Loving Thoughts and Prayers to the Dempsey and Foran Family during this difficult time. We have been honored and blessed to have know Karen and her amazing legacy she leaves behind. We wish you peace and solace as you celebrate Karen’s life. Your memories will be with you for always in your hearts.