Karen Glenn

Karen Starks Glenn, 68, was born on December 2, 1956, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the late Charles Alvin Starks and Margaret Paris Starks. As the youngest of six children, Karen's childhood was filled with fond memories of helping her father on his paper route for the Chattanooga Times Free Press and engaging in "class time" with her siblings. She graduated from Chattanooga High School in 1974 and continued her education at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville.

Karen began her lifelong dedication to education in 1978, serving faithfully for 44 years. During her career, she taught Business courses, led district wide Professional Development, and served as Director of Safe Schools for the Hamilton County Department of Education as well as Executive Director of Students Taking A Right Stand (STARS). Deeply committed to students and their families, she continued her service in retirement as a Parent Advocate and remained active in the Retired Teachers Association.

Karen was a devoted wife and cherished mother. In 1978, she married her high school and college sweetheart, Ronald Glenn of Chattanooga. This year, they celebrated 47 years of marriage. They are the proud parents of two daughters and some of her fondest memories were spent reading to her grandson, Dylan.

Karen was a member of Warren Chapel A.M.E. Church. As a former first lady, she also held membership with St. John A.M.E., St. James A.M.E., Bethel A.M.E (South Pittsburg) and Joseph Chapel A.M.E. Her dedication to the church was evident through involvement in the Young People's Department, Vacation Bible School, and numerous outreach ministries.

Karen was preceded in death by her father, Charles A. Starks; her mother, Margaret Paris Starks; her sister, Iris Starks Stigall; and her brother, Gerald David Starks. To cherish her memory, she leaves her devoted husband, Ronald Glenn; her beloved daughters, Erin Glenn and Kara (Derrick) Thompson; and treasured grandson, Dylan Derrell Thompson. She is also survived by her brothers, Reginald (Shirley) Starks and Eric (Marie) Starks; her sister, Lucile (William) Phillips; along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to a scholarship fund established in Karen's honor. For additional details, please contact the Retired Teachers Association and Kara Glenn Thompson at karathompsong@gmail.com.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, from 2:00-6:00 p.m. at Franklin-Strickland Funeral Home.

A celebration of Karen's remarkable life will be held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at noon, at Warren Chapel A.M.E. Church located 503 North Market Street. Interment will follow at Lakewood Memory Gardens EAST.