Karen Worthy

1944 - 2025

Mrs. Karen Worthy, a devoted educator, visionary entrepreneur, and cherished wife, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025, at the age of 81.
Born on May 30, 1944, Karen began her professional life in the classroom, teaching first grade with warmth, patience, and a genuine love for helping children learn and grow. Her early years as an educator shaped her lifelong commitment to service and the well-being of her community.
Karen's gifts as a leader and her entrepreneurial spirit later guided her into the world of business. Alongside her husband, Walter B. Worthy, she founded Worthy Enterprises, a contracting and construction company that would leave a lasting imprint on the community of Spokane, Washington. Together, they developed, owned, and managed the Rockpoint Professional Center-one of the state's largest office complexes at the time and a flourishing center of professional life in the region.
Their work eventually led them to the beloved historic Davenport Hotel, which they helped preserve and revitalize with deep pride and dedication. This stewardship grew into Worthy Hotels, a collection of full-service upscale hotels that reflected their combined vision, high standards, and unwavering belief in the importance of a vibrant community.
Beyond her professional achievements, Karen's life was deeply rooted in love, partnership, and grace. She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Walter B. Worthy, with whom she shared an extraordinary life marked by mutual devotion, respect, and shared purpose. She also leaves behind her nephew and his wife, Robin and Christine Mitchell, who reside in western Washington and held a special place in her heart. Throughout her life, she was surrounded by countless colleagues and employees who admired her supportive approachable style, kind nature, and warm smile.
Karen will be remembered for her strength, generosity, keen mind, and the elegance with which she met every chapter of her life. She had a remarkable ability to make others feel seen and valued, and she carried herself with humility even amid great responsibility. Her legacy lives on in the institutions she built, the lives she touched, and the enduring love of her family and community.
Those fortunate enough to know her will miss her sense of humor, laughter, and her steady kindness. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.