Karen Montplaisir

Karen “Nana Kay” Montplaisir, affectionately known to many as Auntie KK, passed away on August 16, 2025, in Manchester, New Hampshire, at the age of 60. Born Karen Clancy on February 6, 1965, in Manchester, she remained deeply rooted in her hometown throughout her life.

Karen’s life was defined by her unwavering devotion to family and community. At just 16 years old, she embraced motherhood with strength and determination. Though she had only one child, her daughter Heidi Gingras, Karen poured her heart into raising her and later extended that same love to countless others. Her son-in-law Jose Colon Rodriguez became part of that close-knit circle, as did her beloved grandchildren: Liliana Colon and her boyfriend Ben Haines; Jose “Manny” Colon and his girlfriend Ava Millward; and Noah Colon and his girlfriend Tiana Dauwer. Karen’s grandson Andrew Colon preceded her in death.

Karen’s nurturing spirit knew no bounds. She longed for a large family and found fulfillment by becoming a second mother and grandmother to many. Her nieces, nephews, Heidi’s friends, and their children all knew the warmth of her embrace. Whether they called her Auntie KK or Nana Kay, they were all part of the family she built with love.

Her career as a server at Longhorn Steakhouse in Manchester spanned over two decades. Since the restaurant opened its doors in 2000, Karen was a constant presence—welcoming guests with kindness and forming lasting bonds with regulars who became like family. Her dedication earned her a cherished place among the Longhorn team—her “LoHo family”—who will miss her deeply.

Karen is survived by her father Edward Clancy; siblings Lisa Marcoux; Tina Racicot and husband Ray Racicot; Russell Clancy and wife Carla Clancy; Lee-ann Clancy and Merle Shaw; Arthur Clancy and wife Mai Clancy; Benjamin Clancy and his girlfriend Shannon Ouellette. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, “adopted” children and grandchildren who were touched by her generosity and unconditional love.

She was predeceased by her mother Juanita Clancy; husband Ron Montplaisir; grandson Andrew Colon; and lifelong best friend Robert “Mugsy” Gingras.

Among those who held a special place in Karen’s heart were Jesse, Nick, Jenn,Missy, Amy, Anyssa, Alexis, Alana, Branden and Landon—individuals with whom she shared countless days filled with laughter, support, and companionship. So many more!

Karen lived for moments spent with loved ones—whether it was taking the grandkids to Disney World or spending afternoons at local parks or zoos. She gave everything she had to ensure those around her felt joy—even when she had little herself.

Her legacy is one of boundless love that transcended bloodlines—a testament to how one person’s heart can hold an entire community.

May Karen’s memory bring comfort to all who knew her as Nana Kay or Auntie KK—and may the love she gave so freely continue to ripple through generations.

In the end, she still continued to give by generously donating one of her organs to save another woman's life.

Services will be Sunday, Septemeber 21, 2025 at Bedford Event Center, 379 South River rd, Bedford, NH from 2:00pm - 7:00pm.