Karen Sue Coats

Karen Sue Coats, 66 of Carlisle, Arkansas, walked through heaven’s gates into the loving arms of her Savior on August 17, 2025. Karen was born April 2, 1959, to Delbert and Ruby Owens in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

Karen was a faithful employee of Lennox in Stuttgart, having retired after many years of service. She also worked at Riceland Foods in Stuttgart and spoke fondly of her time there. Karen was currently employed by the University of Arkansas in Lonoke.

Karen was first and foremost a Christian woman who faithfully served her Lord and others. She was kindhearted, sympathetic, family oriented and was always willing to lend a listening ear. Her favorite hobbies were hunting and fishing with her loving husband Terry. They truly enjoyed all their time together, but it was never more evident than when she was in her deer stand or getting in a good bream bed or crappie hole.

Karen was never the kind to ask for accolades and never wanted to be the center of attention. Instead, she simply wanted her family and friends to search their hearts and have the assurance that Jesus is the Lord and Savior of their lives. If so, she will be welcoming you home someday with the beautiful smile on her face that she was known for.

Karen was preceded in death by both her parents, and her brother, Donnie Owens of Stuttgart.

Karen is survived by her loving spouse of 46 years, Terry Coats. She truly loved being with Terry and this was evident in the love and covenant that they shared. Karen is also survived by her two beautiful daughters that were her pride and joy, Amy Rider of Benton, Arkansas and Ashley Rutherford (Marion) of Jonesboro, Arkansas; her brother Dennis Owens (Tracey) of Strawberry, Arkansas; sister, Kay Hornibrook of Carlisle; brother David Owens of Jacksonville, Arkansas; brother, Johnny Owens (Sharon) of Port Neches, Texas; a special niece, Haven Hornibrook of Carlisle. Karen took such pride and had the deepest of love for her two grandsons, Landen Rider and Carsen Rider both of Benton. In addition to her immediate family, Karen leaves behind several nieces and relatives and or host of family and friends that she held dear.

A memorial service to honor the life of Karen will be at the Lonoke Baptist Church on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 11:00am. Flowers and memorials may be sent to Boyd Funeral Home or the Lonoke Baptist Church.

A special thank you from the family goes to the Lonoke Baptist Church and especially to Karen’s Sunday school class. You truly became the hands and feet of Jesus during Karen’s illness. Please do not dwell on the fact that she is gone but cherish her memory and let it live on. You can cry and feel empty, or you can do what Karen would want.....love Jesus, smile, open your heart, love others and simply go on with the beautiful life you've been given.

Arrangements entrusted to Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke, Arkansas.