Karen Stubbs

1938 - 2023

Karen Stubbs

September 23, 1938 - October 27, 2023

Kansas City, Missouri - Born at the end of the Pendergast era and raised in the Independence sunshine of Harry S Truman, Karen Kirtley Stubbs died Oct 27 at the age of 85. A lifelong Democrat, her parents, Judge J. Marcus and Hazel Nickell Kirtley were politically active, and her father was a Missouri delegate at the National Convention Nov. 2, 1948, voting for President Harry Truman.

Karen attended the University of Missouri-Columbia where she was a member of Pi Beta Phi and served on the PanHellenic Board. She left Mizzou before graduation to marry Donald G. Stubbs in 1959 and the two enjoyed their three children as well as traveling to Europe and Aspen for its music festivals. For four years Don and Karen coordinated the enormously popular Nelson-Atkins Museum Friends of Art trips, reserving TWA planes that carried 125 passengers roundtrip from Kansas City to Paris. Karen attended UMKC where she received a B.S. in history, a master's degree in public administration and a J.D. from the School of Law. Karen was past president of Planned Parenthood of Kansas City and Pi Phi alumnae club. She was director of CORO, a 10-week program where 12 summer interns studied public affairs by meeting with government leaders.

Karen had a prodigious memory for her hometown and her Independence stories had more winding lanes and cul de sacs than straight roads. Karen loved Democrats, either elected or running for office. She was blessed with close friends who she treasured. She particularly loved Saturday lunches with Judge Sach's group, and gatherings with Pi Phi friends and those she called "the Tribe."

In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her husband, Don, and sister Marcia Brockmire. She is survived by her children, David (Janeen), Laura and Julie (Petr); her sister, Mary Ellen Kirtley, and five incredible grandchildren. Karen chose not to have a funeral service and suggested contributions to Planned Parenthood Patty Brous Clinic, 1010 Emanuel Cleaver Blvd, KCMO 64110, or KCUR, 4825 Troost #202, Kansas City, 64110. The family would like to recognize the staff at Armour Oaks Senior Living for their care and support.