Karen Stauffacher Rector, born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, November 14, 1940, went to her heavenly home November 15, 2014. She is survived by Ray, her loving and devoted husband of 49 years; their beloved sons, John and Adam; her brother, Barry Stauffacher; her sister, Lynn Erickson; precious grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Karen attended the University of Minnesota, earned a degree in nursing from Columbia State College, in Columbia, Tennessee, and a degree in phsychology from Nova University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She began her nursing career at Vanderbilt University Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee. In 2004, she retired as director of nursing at Palm Garden Nursing Home in Ocala, Florida. She received many honors during her career including being named one of the “100 Greatest Nurses in Marion County, Florida” in 2003. She also traveled to San Diego, California, to receive a National award for developing a program to enhance the quality of life for Alzheimer patients. She wrote and published several articles in National Nursing Journals. She was a lifelong volunteer in the community, her church, an avid physical fitness buff and yoga practitioner. She was a member of the Burningtree Country Club, The Book Club, The Bridge Club and the Central United Methodist Church. She loved the Lord, was devoted to her family and cherished the relationships she had throughout her life with her wonderful friends.
On Wednesday, November 19, 2014, a celebratory service of Karen’s life will be held at the Central United Methodist Church located at 616 Jackson Street SE, Decatur, AL 35601. Reception of friends at 1 p.m. Service to follow at approximately 2 p.m.
