Karen Sharlene Avery

Karen Sharlene (Birdsong) Avery, a devoted mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on June 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 8, 1960, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Jennie "Loeta" and Eugene Birdsong, Karen lived a life filled with faith, love, and resilience.
Throughout her life, Karen's strong faith in God was a guiding force, with her favorite Bible passages being John 3:16, 2 Corinthians 5:8, and Psalms 91. Despite facing numerous health challenges, including seven years of dialysis, Karen's hope and longing to see Jesus face-to-face and be reunited with her son Shawn Avery sustained her. Karen was a resourceful and determined individual who made the most of every situation. She took pride in making decisions and was known for her strong will. In fact, she even contributed to her own obituary. Her passions included fishing, arts and crafts, and traveling, but her family was always her top priority. Karen's love for her dogs, Milo and Daisy, brought her immense joy, and she cherished the time spent with them after her dialysis treatments.
Karen was especially grateful for the care and companionship of her PCA, Mary, who became like a daughter to her. The time they spent together will always be cherished. Karen is preceded in death by her parents, Jennie "Loeta" and Eugene Birdsong, her brother James Birdsong, and her son Shawn Avery. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by her daughters Monica Edson and Cristy Culwell (and her wife Brittany), son Mark Avery Jr. (and his wife Katie), and her grandchildren Jakob, Julian, Emilia, Winter, Shawn, Hayden, Brandon, as well as eight other grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
As Karen's family reflects on her life, they remember her unwavering commitment to doing her best and putting her family first. Her love, strength, and faith will continue to inspire and guide those who knew her.
Services will be rendered by Barnes-Friederich & Pope Funeral Home, 1820 S Douglas Blvd, Midwest City, OK 73130. Visitation will be Wednesday, July 2, 2025, from 2:00PM – 8:00PM, and Thursday, July 3, from 8:00AM – 8:00PM. A Funeral Service will be at 3:00PM, Saturday, July 5, 2025 in the Barnes-Friederich Funeral Home Chapel, with a burial to follow at Kolb Cemetery, 3706 N Midwest Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73141. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Karen Sharlene (Birdsong), please visit our Tree Store.