Karen Celeste Burch

A beloved mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend, Karen Celeste Burch, who passed away peacefully at the age of 54 on August 5, 2025, at Novant Health Rowan Medical Center in Salisbury, N.C.

Karen was born in Salisbury, North Carolina, on March 24, 1971, the daughter of the late Hazel L. Robbins and Bobby J. Robbins Sr. She attended West Rowan High School and most recently worked at the Citadel Nursing Facility, where she was known for her kindness, dedication, and gentle spirit.

Karen was a woman of strength, grace, and quiet resilience. She had a warm and nurturing soul, and her love for her family knew no bounds. She was family-oriented, a mother figure to many, and always the life of the party--her energy, laughter, and generous heart made everyone feel welcomed, loved, and uplifted. Her presence brought comfort, joy, and a sense of home to all who knew her.

She was the devoted and loving wife of Emmanuel Wah, her partner in life and love. Their union was built on mutual respect, unwavering support, and a shared journey filled with laughter, strength, and devotion--a true testament to lasting love.

Karen leaves behind her cherished children: Raymond Burch of Salisbury, NC, Tamara Burch of High Point, NC, Kayla Burch (Ernest Graves, III) of Salisbury, NC and Keosha Burch (Mitchell Blocker) of Salisbury NC each of whom carry forward her legacy of love, strength, and compassion. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Bradley Neely, Nas'zir Neely, Kalaysia Burch, Brailey Neely, Kayson Graves, Rayzon Burch, Keziah Burch, and Zy'kyus Burch and a special place in her heart for her bonus granddaughter, Loyalty Nicholson, who brought her immeasurable joy.

Karen is also survived by her devoted siblings, Barbara Jean Hopkins of Winston Salem and Bobby “Randy” Robbins Jr of Salisbury as well as beloved nieces and nephews: Quintin Davis of Concord, Shalonda Hopkins of Winston Salem, Brittney Hopkins of Lexington , and Dashon Hopkins of Salisbury. She was a proud great-aunt to 11 special great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom were touched by her love and guidance.

She shared a lifelong friendship with her best friends, Felicia Gaither of Concord and Eurika Rogers of Charlotte, who stood by her side through every season of life.

Karen will be remembered for her beautiful smile, her unwavering strength, and her limitless love for those she held dear.

Lovingly submitted by the family.

Arrangements: A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, August 13th, 2025, at Noble and Kelsey Funeral Home, Inc. - A. R. Kelsey Memorial Chapel. Visitation will begin at 3:00 p.m. and the funeral service will follow at 3:30 p.m. Reverend Martha Green, Officiating.

Noble and Kelsey Funeral Home, Inc. is assisting the Burch family. Online condolences may be sent to nobleandkelsey.com.