Karen Marie Byrd

Karen Marie Byrd passed away on September 2, 2025, at the age of 59.
Karen is survived by her children, Samantha Forberg and Hunter Larson; her mother, Sonia Byrd; her sister and brother-in-law, Laura and Tim Hickman; her step-sister, Cathy Byrd; and her nieces and nephew, Charlotte Haupt, Christian Haupt, Kiley Hickman, Corinne Hickman, and Eve Hickman. She was preceded in death by her sister, Kristin Eaton, and her father, Richard Byrd.
Over the course of her career, Karen made lasting contributions in the field of finance. She served as Chief Financial Officer for First Republic Companies in Minnesota. Her favorite role, however, was as the Senior Media Operations Specialist for Best Buy Corporation. In this position, she combined her computer programming expertise with her remarkable problem-solving skills, supporting the company's growth while interacting with many of the major music artists of the 1990s.
Beyond her professional achievements, Karen had a generous heart, always ready to lend a helping hand to her neighbors, friends, and co-workers. She enjoyed time with her family, and in recent months especially loved playing cards with her mother and close friends. Karen was an avid movie enthusiast, a devoted fan of the color purple, and a true people-person who entered a room with enthusiasm and sharp sense of humor. Karen had a strong creative streak, and found joy in making beautiful cards and jewelry.
Karen also found purpose in service. She volunteered faithfully for many years at the BUMC Kidsale and with Faithfully Restored, an organization that offers community and prayer to women in need.
She will be deeply missed.
Visitation will be held from 12 to 1pm on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 in the chapel narthex at Brentwood United Methodist Church, 309 Franklin Road, Brentwood, Tennessee. A celebration of life will follow at 1pm in the chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Healing Housing, Inc., PO Box 2385, Brentwood, TN 37204.
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