Donna Murley Karr

Donna Hope (Murley) Karr, lovingly known for her kindness, faith, and devotion to family, was born on March 8, 1952, in Cumberland County to Bill and Arilla Murley. She passed away surrounded by the love of a life well lived. Donna was the beloved wife of Jerry Karr, her husband of more than 40 years. She was a proud and loving mother to Aja Jacobi (AJ) of Richmond, KY, Kristopher Karr of Lexington, KY, and Sara Moore (Josh) of Burkesville, KY. Her greatest joy was being "Nanny" to her treasured grandchildren: Hanah Moore, Hope Moore, Elijah Moore, Rue Jacobi, Oscar Jacobi, Myla Karr, and Matilda Karr, whom she absolutely adored. She is also survived by her brother, Jim Murley (Barbara); her cousins who were more like siblings, Susan Davidson, Judy Knowles, and Tim Murley; and her niece and nephews, Rachel McDaris (Brent) and Chris Murley (Kristen). Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Arilla Murley, and her beloved cousins Norma Joe Murley and Debrah Keen (Sam). Donna graduated from Cumberland County High School and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Eastern Kentucky University, as part of EKU's first four-year BSN program. She began working at the VA Hospital while still a student and devoted more than 40 years of faithful service there in various roles, caring for veterans with compassion, skill and professionalism. She also generously gave her time as a CASA volunteer, advocating for children and families in need. A devoted follower of Christ, Donna was deeply involved in both The First United Methodist Church of Richmond and her childhood church, Leslie United Methodist Church in Burkesville. She led Sunday School classes and other church groups for many years and cherished her church family. Donna loved the things that made life beautiful; flowers, shopping, jewelry, music, traveling, and being surrounded by people she loved. She especially treasured time with children and her grandchildren, who were the center of her world. She loved animals and horseback riding, kept an immaculate home, and somehow even found peace in cleaning and vacuuming. Above all else, Donna loved fiercely, generously, and with her whole heart. Funeral Services will be held at 4:00 PM Monday, February 2, 2026, at The First United Methodist Church, 401 West Main Street with Rev. Eric Espada, officiating. The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 4:00 PM Monday at the church. Donna will be remembered for her generous spirit, her fierce love for her family, her unwavering faith, and the safe, welcoming presence she offered to everyone she loved. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched-as a nurse, volunteer, teacher, friend, wife, mother, and grandmother. Memorial Contributions in Memory of Donna Karr are suggested to the Stockton Family Cemetery Fund, 5050 Leslie Road, Burkesville, Kentucky 42717

The Combs, Parsons & Collins Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.