Karen Sue Smith

Born in Wellsville, Ohio, to Charles and Dorothy Leatherberry, Karen graduated from Wellsville High School and later attended business school in Columbus, Ohio. During her career, she worked as an administrative assistant in the aerospace industry and for her church in the Columbus area. She also proudly served her country in the United States Navy Reserve.

Karen’s life was rich with interests and accomplishments beyond her professional and church work. While living in Columbus, she sang with the Sweet Adelines, delighting in the fellowship and joy of chorus harmony. She also pursued private pilot training and proudly completed her solo flight – an achievement she remembered fondly.

In 1989, Karen relocated to Florida with her husband, Clyde, where she continued her lifelong devotion to her faith and her church community. She served as a church secretary, played piano beautifully during services, and pursued extensive theological study, earning a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in theology, and a master’s degree in divinity.

Karen is survived by her loving husband, Clyde; three nieces (Marilyn, Patricia, and Bethany); two nephews (Charles and Sean); and three grand-nieces (Jessica, Kelley, and Charlee).

Karen’s life was shaped and steadied by her deep and unwavering Christian faith. It guided her choices, sustained her through challenges, and gave her profound peace and confidence in the promise of her eternal home. Those who knew her witnessed a faith lived out daily with humility, conviction, and quiet strength. She will be remembered for her calm demeanor, generous spirit, kind heart, and the deep love she held for her family.

A visitation and funeral service will be held at Roberts Funeral Home, 631 Main St. in Wellsville, Ohio on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., with the funeral service beginning at 11:30 a.m., followed by internment at Spring Hill Cemetery. Donations in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

You may view this obituary and send condolences online at www.robertsfuneralhomewellsville.com.

6/29/26