Karan Anne Beish Cook

Karan Anne Beish Cook, 63, of Canton, North Carolina, passed away on November 16, 2025. Karan was born on August 28, 1962, and lived a life marked by generosity, warmth, and a remarkable ability to connect with those around her.
Karan was preceded in death by her son, Nathan Allen, and her father, Kenneth Beish.
Karan had a gift-an extraordinary warmth that drew people in. She truly never met a stranger; no matter where she went, she created space for connection. Strangers would tell her their life stories, friends would confide in her, and family felt endlessly supported by her sparkling personality. She often joked that it was her charm and glitter that made people love her, but the truth is that her heart, humor, and kindness made her unforgettable. She adored anything with sparkles or glitter, insisting-especially as she got older-that if it shimmered, she needed it. Her love for animals ran just as deep; her cherished dog Camilla was her world, following her beloved girls Roxie and Daisy, who preceded her in death. She loved horses, the ocean, traveling, and the simple joy of coloring. In recent years, coloring became her passion-she carried her coloring supplies everywhere she went and spent hours brightening pages with the same vibrancy she brought into the world. To know Karan was to love her. She was light, laughter, sparkle, and heart-all wrapped into one remarkable woman. Her absence leaves an ache beyond measure, but her love and her larger-than-life spirit will continue to shine through the family and friends she cherished so deeply.
She is survived by her husband of 27 years, Stacey Cook, of Canton; and her children, Brandise (Kenny) Vance of Temple, Georgia, Aubrey Cook of Greensboro, Keagan Cook of Greensboro, and the memory of Nathan Allen. Karan's love, pride, and devotion to her children were well known, and many have spoken of the strength and constancy of that bond. Karan is also survived by her mother, Annette Beish of Sacramento, California; her siblings, Kenneth Beish Jr. and his children Travis, Trent, and Kellyn; Tracy (Toby) Liter and their son Emmett; and Katherine (Darren) Akers of Tennessee and their daughters Kelsey and Taryn. She leaves behind her granddaughter, Annalee, whom she affectionately called "Grandmutta," along with two grandsons and nine great-grandchildren. She is additionally survived by her dear friend, Juanita Warren.
Karan will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her kindness, and the lasting impact she made on her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date
Smoky Mountain Cremations and Funeral Service of Maggie Valley is caring for the family and the online register is available at www.smokymountaincremations.com.