Karen J. Sanford

Karen J. Sanford, a beloved mother, sister, daughter, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025, in Lanesville, Indiana, surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 25, 1976, in Louisville, Kentucky, Karen touched the lives of many throughout her vibrant journey.

A graduate of South Oldham High School, Karen devoted herself to her career, serving as a store manager for HomeGoods for 14 years before continuing her professional path at JoAnn's for 2 years. Her commitment and dedication in her work were greatly admired by her peers and colleagues.

Karen was known for her warm spirit and passions that included crafts, journaling, drawing and marker paintings, and reading. She treasured every moment spent with her family, who were the center of her world.

Karen is survived by her son, Cameron Sanford; son, Kobe Johnson; mother, Carol Erb; sisters, Tracy Erb, Pam Pavlik, Tina (Bill) Glotzbach, and Kirstie (David) Edwards; along with several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends, all of whom will carry her memory in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her father, John Erb; brother, Dale Erb; and sister, Latricia Fahringer.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Edwardsville - Tunnel Hill Cemetery in Georgetown, Indiana, providing family and friends an opportunity to pay their final respects and celebrate Karen's life and legacy. There will be a meal provided for family and friends at First Baptist of Elizabeth (8030 Baptist Church Road, Elizabeth, Indiana) following the burial.

In lieu of flowers Karen would have asked that contributions in her memory to be be made to St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital, as she knew the hard struggles that the children go through as she did battling her own cancer.