Karen Sue Whitfield, age 70, of Wichita, Kansas, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, surrounded by her family and wrapped in love. Karen was born on July 18, 1955, in Russell, Kansas, to Ray and Glenda Neal, who welcomed her into a life that would be marked by devotion, resilience, and a deep love for family.

Karen graduated from Russell High School in 1973 and later attended Wichita State University. She dedicated 17 years of her life to Southwestern Bell as a Kansas directory operator, where her steady presence, patience, and strong work ethic reflected the same values she carried into every part of her life.

Karen was the heart of her family. She loved quietly but deeply, showing up in consistent, meaningful ways. Her greatest joy was her children and grandchildren, and she cherished every moment spent with them. She also held a very special place in her heart for her nieces and nephews, loving them as if they were her own. Her home, her voice, and her presence were a source of comfort and belonging to all who knew her.

Karen's faith carried her through both joy and sorrow. She trusted in God's promises and found peace in prayer, even in life's hardest moments. While her absence leaves an ache in our hearts, we find comfort in knowing she is now at rest, fully healed, fully whole, and reunited with loved ones who went before her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Glenda Neal; her sister, Rae Ann Storm; her grandmother, Bernice Dillon; and her beloved grandson, Nico Ray Chavez, whom she now holds again.

Karen is survived by her daughter, Jamie Whitfield, and her son, Timothy Whitfield Jr., both of Wichita, Kansas; eight cherished grandchildren; and a loving host of nieces and nephews who were deeply treasured and will forever carry her love with them.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Hope Mennonite Church, located at 868 N. Maize Road, Wichita, Kansas.

Though we say goodbye for now, we hold onto the promise of reunion. Karen's love, faith, and gentle spirit will continue to guide us until we meet again.