Karen Marie Southerland, age 72, of Double Springs, passed away Friday, December 13, 2024 at her residence. She was born on September 29, 1952 in Illinois to Hershel and Patricia Benton. Karen loved spending time with her family, especially the grandchildren. She loved to crochet, and loved going to church and worshiping. Karen enjoyed life to the fullest. Visitation will be on Monday, December 16, 2024 from 12 noon until 2:00 p.m. at Nichols Funeral Home in Haleyville, where the service will begin at 2:00 p.m. Brother Richie Emerson will officiate. Karen is survived by her sons, Phillip (Paula) Melton, Jason Melton, and Kevin (Sherrie) Melton; grandchildren, Harley James Melton, Kara Elizabeth, Kourtney Nicole, Colton Ross, Caden Lewis, Katelyn Roberson, and Payton Gathings; great-grandchildren, Jaxon Trotter and Norah Ricks; brother, David Benton; sister, Ruth Benton; daughter in law, Debra Melton; and a host of nieces and nephews. She is proceeded in death by her parents, Hershel and Patricia Benton; daughter, Elizabeth Melton; brother, Steve Benton; and sister, Rebecca Benton.
