Karen Jane Nave, age 70, of Athens, passed away on Saturday, February 7th, 2026, at Huntsville Hospital. Mrs. Nave was born on January 16th, 1956, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Winfred and Edna (Hester) Marbut. Karen (Janie) was a beloved wife, mother and Grammy. She was a favorite aunt, a favorite sister, a best friend, a woman with a happy demeanor and always a ready laugh. She loved God, her family, and babies. To know her was to absolutely love her. Mrs. Nave loved taking sister trips and playing cards.
Mrs. Nave is survived by her husband, Jimmy Don Nave of Athens; daughter, Becca Kramer (Chandler) of Madison; and grandson, Grayson Kramer. Survivors include brothers, Larry Marbut of Elkmont and Stephen Marbut (Sue) of Elkmont; sisters, Linda Marbut of Athens, Victoria Evans (Royce) Athens, and Patricia Davis of Athens; a ton of nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews; and many, many friends
She is preceded in death by her parents, Winfred and Edna Marbut; brother Mark Marbut; and sisters, Carolyn Graham, Claire Goodin, and Myra Burleson. Those guys are having a joyful reunion right now…
Funeral services for Mrs. Nave will be February 11th, 2026, at Limestone Chapel Funeral Home, at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Jason Parnell officiating, with Mike Nave and Becca Kramer speaking. Visitation will be Wednesday, from 11:00 to 12:45 p.m., at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Brett Nave, Bart Nave, Rusty Brand, Nelson Marbut, Michael Graham, and Royce Evans. Burial will be at New Salem Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to North Alabama Food Bank.
