Karen Baltar Reily

May 27, 1950 - September 27, 2023

New Orleans, Louisiana - Karen passed away surrounded by her loving daughters and companion. She is preceded in death by her parents Kathryn and William Baltar and her beloved son James Weaks Reily III (Jimbo). She is survived by her three daughters Katy Roubion (Dennis), Kelly Grace (Robert), Kristie Yancey (Hunter). Her seven grandkids Holden, Reily and Cecile Roubion; Weaks, Waylon and Sawyer Grace; Hunter Yancey; her sister Sheryl Baltar; former husband Timothy Reily and longtime companion Al Gooch.

After graduating from St. Martin's School, where she was homecoming queen, she matriculated to LSU joining the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority; graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree. Karen was a lover of life. Never missing an opportunity to travel, for a fishing trip, a golf match or a mahjong game with friends. If you didn't see her at her favorite Galatoire's table sharing stories with friends you could find her at the Southern Yacht Club with her longtime

companion, Al Gooch. Being a member of the Olympic Sailing Association they

shared a mutual love for the sport of sailing. Beyond her own passions, she devoted her time to giving back to the community through her involvement with the Junior League, Orleans Club, Sybarites and Zoo to Do as a past Chairwoman.

She was a devout follower of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ; and a prominent fixture on row 6 at Trinity Episcopal Church on Sunday mornings. A loving mother, sister, grandmother and companion. Her beautiful blue eyes, big smile and contagious laugh will be missed by all those blessed to call her a friend.

Friends and family are invited to join us Wednesday October, 4th at Trinity Episcopal Church. Visitation 10AM: Service 11AM. Interment will be private.

Please wear bright, colorful clothing. Celebration of Life at the Southern Yacht Club begins at 12PM.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Trinity Episcopal Church 1329 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130.

The family invites you to share your thoughts, fond memories and condolences online at www.lakelawnmetairie.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sun Herald on Oct. 1, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Karen Reily

Sponsored by The Sun Herald.

17 Entries

Wendy Dascomb Bryan

September 28, 2025

A scar remains in my head for Karen, Timmy, Jonny´s loss. My biggest concern is for Timmy´s 3 girls (all lovely young women.) My personal pain pales in comparison. The Reily family has had a powerful and wonderful effect on my life.

Pat Thomas

October 8, 2023

May the lovely memories bring you peace during this time. Her loving smile was so contagious!

Mary Linda Mills (Provosty) Blount

October 7, 2023

Karen was a devoted, generous and sparkling friend of mine. She will always remain in my memory an example of one who exemplified true `love of life and others´....such positivity always amazed me. She will be tremendously missed by everyone in her realm. Linda Mills (Provosty) Blount. Potomac, Maryland

Marcia Ryniker Baird

October 6, 2023

It is with great saddness that I hear of my life long friend's passing. Condolences to Sheryl, Katy, Kelly Kristie and family. She and I shared much fun at the SYC sailing and other fun activities through the years especially during our teenage years. May God Bless her, May She Rest In Peace. Marcia Ryniker Baird

Edward

October 4, 2023

Karen was a classmate and lifelong friend to the St. Martins class of 1968 and the StM community. She has been very active for decades planning class reunions and other events. Her smile would always light up any room. We all love you and miss you. Godspeed to you Karen and sincere condolences to your family.

Pattie

October 4, 2023

Karen was a beautiful, kind woman and she will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her. I feel blessed to have been able to call her my friend. Steve and I have so many happy memories of times with her and Al upon which to reflect

Miller and Deborah Guice

October 4, 2023

We will miss your smile and humor!

Anne payne

October 3, 2023

Karen was a friend to all. Her beautiful smile brighten all rooms.
Among my favorite memories is that we sailed together for many years. "Twinkle toes" ( because she managed the foredeck) was always a special addition to our racing team.
To remember Karen makes you smile. Thank you for your friendship.

Charles Lowe

October 3, 2023

All l remember were the good times and there were plenty of them. Heck l remember learning how to bowl in the little green house in the kitchen. The best part was the comraderie of the children and the adults. Karen was always smiling and laughing whether it was during lazy summer days or watching Saturday Night Live.
God bless Karen and all of her family and friends.

Dee Phillips

October 3, 2023

I am so sad that I will not be seeing Karen´s joyful face from a few pews in front of her. She was such a fun and friendly lady. My prayers are with you all. Dee Phillips

Mary Zissis

October 2, 2023

A wonderful beautiful woman who always had a smile on her face. Will miss you dearly. I thank you Karen for your generosity, love, laughs and most of all Jimbo, Katy, Kelly and Kristie-
Maria Zissis

Katherine Chamlee

October 2, 2023

A true Lady and sweetest person ever. Karen! Please say hi to Ingersoll

Joy Scruggs Ellis

October 1, 2023

Our deepest sympathy is extended to all of Karen´s family and friends on this very sad occurrence. Puddin (Karen´s Mom) was the great aunt and good friend of my Mom. We always enjoyed so much the company of Karen and Sheryl, and we know there is much sadness and pain in the hearts of Karen´s family and friends. I feel like Puddin has her arms wide open, welcoming Karen home. Sending love and many blessings, Joy Scruggs Ellis

Billy Sherar

September 30, 2023

Karen's smile always lighted up the room. We will always remember Karen and her smile.
Karen, thanks for the happy reception every time We saw you.

Billy and Robin Sherar

Wendy Dascomb Bryan

September 30, 2023

Karen, aka, Kare Bear, was a close friend during my years at St Martins and has remained a loyal friend since that time. On most Saturdays she spent the night at my house after we double dated. My family always looked forward to her presence. Her infectious laugh, her grace and kindness always shone. She had a whim of iron, and a heart of gold. When one needed a friend, she was there. It is impossible to describe her eternal beauty because it enveloped every part of her being. Her excitement and determination began from the moment she began each day and continued throughout. We, her friends, lost a dear comrade, while the greater universe has embraced a new angel in the life beyond.

Debbie Wolf

September 29, 2023

My best to all at this sad time.

Mary Sue Roniger

September 29, 2023

Karen, you will be lovingly remembered by oh-so-many, but especially by my sister Ginger Dodge, who loved your companionship and friendship through all these years, ever since your St. Martin's days together. How I love that our mothers were friends, you and Gin, your daughters, and now their children, four generations of friendship ! What a gift ! Love, Mary Sue (Nelson) Roniger

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