Karen Flowers Gans

Mrs. Karen Flowers Gans, 85, of Jacksonville, Florida, formerly of Adel, Georgia, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2024, at Cypress Village in Jacksonville. Born on February 20, 1939, in Hahira, Georgia, she was the cherished daughter of the late Norwood Wallestein Miley and Rhona Barfield Miley.
Karen's journey began in Adel, Georgia, where she laid down roots and blossomed within her community. Her vibrant spirit led her to Beaufort, South Carolina, and eventually to Jacksonville, Florida, where she embraced each new chapter of her life with grace and resilience.
A dedicated professional, Karen retired from Vulcan Steel, where she served as the office manager, leaving a legacy of diligence and excellence. Her commitment to her work mirrored her unwavering dedication to her family and faith.
Karen was a beloved member of the Adel United Methodist Church, where her voice graced the choir for over 50 years, filling the sanctuary with melodies of praise. Additionally, she found camaraderie and pride in her membership with the Daughters of the Revolutionary War, Levi Garrett Chapter, honoring her heritage with passion and reverence.
Beyond her commitments, Karen found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She reveled in the tranquility of the beach, spending cherished week-long vacations surfing, fishing, and collecting treasures with her family by her side. Her love for her family was evident in every moment spent together, cherishing each precious memory made.
Karen's talents extended beyond the church choir, as she lent her voice to Bottie Chitty and the Singing Americans alongside her first husband, Johnny Flowers. Together, they created harmonies that became the soundtrack of their children's upbringing, weaving joy into the fabric of their lives.
In the kitchen, Karen was a culinary artist, delighting in the creation of Mayhaw jelly and baking cakes and pies simply to spread joy to others. Her love for cooking extended to hosting and entertaining large family gatherings, where her warmth and hospitality left an indelible mark on all who crossed her threshold.
Karen's passing leaves a void in the lives of her loved ones, but her memory will forever be cherished. She is survived by her devoted husband, George M. Gans, Jr. of Jacksonville, her loving children and their spouses: Gregg and Toni B. Flowers of Beaufort, Brett and Renita Flowers of Amelia Island, Florida, Mark and April Flowers of Jacksonville, Cindi Flowers Odham and her husband Kevin of Hayes, Virginia; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; as well as her brother and sister-in-law, Marshall and Karen Miley of Athens, Georgia; her sister, Tanya M. Johnson of Calhoun, Georgia; step-children: David Gans of Olympia, Washington, George M. "Ship" Gans III of Prescott, Arizona, Marti Gans and Carolyn Skurich, both of Tucson Arizona, and their families.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at the Adel Wesleyan Church, where Karen's life will be celebrated and honored. Rev. Doug Tolson will officiate, with Pastor David Gans providing the eulogy. Interment will follow at Woodlawn City Cemetery, where Karen will rest alongside her loved ones. Randy Booth will play a prelude and postlude at the service including "Blessed Assurance" and will also provide accompaniment for Dr. Mary Sue Ward as she sings "How Great Thou Art," "Amazing Grace" and "The Old Rugged Cross". Curtis Ray, Calem Ray, Jackson Ray, Tim Cannington, Christopher Flowers and Preston Sinclair will serve as pallbearers. Prior to the funeral service, visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, providing an opportunity for friends and family to pay their respects.
Though Karen's physical presence may be absent, her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. As she embarks on her journey to her forever home in heaven, may her loved ones find solace in the knowledge that she is at peace, free from pain and suffering, and surrounded by eternal love.