KAREN PACE EDNEY

Published 10:23 am Thursday, February 6, 2025

COLUMBUS — Karen Pace Edney, 69, passed away on February 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at Mission Hospital in Asheville. 

A native and lifelong resident of Polk County, Karen was a graduate of East Henderson High School and attended Blue Ridge Community College. She dedicated much of her career to Duke Power and the U.S. Postal Service, often balancing additional part-time jobs to support her family with unwavering love and dedication.

Karen was a gentle and kind soul, always ready with a sympathetic ear and words of encouragement for those around her. Her greatest joy in life was being a mother to her two sons. She was their biggest cheerleader, both on and off the field, coaching youth basketball and being a fixture at their games from elementary school through college. Karen had a sharp eye for the rules of every sport they played and was never shy about letting referees or umpires know when she disagreed with a call.

Karen shared a special bond with her mother, Jean, rooted in a love of adventure that began in Karen’s childhood, traveling across the country in the family’s Winnebago with her parents and siblings. That spirit of exploration continued throughout her life, as she and her mother could often be found together “poking around” local thrift stores in search of hidden treasures or setting off on new adventures near and far. Their relationship was filled with laughter, fulfilling companionship, and a sincere appreciation for each other.

In her later years, Karen found joy in simple pleasures—tending her flowers, snuggling with her cat, tackling home improvement projects, and most of all, doting on her grandchildren.

Karen is survived by her mother, Jean Pace; sister, Marcia Leadford (Dara); brother, Wally Pace (Tonya); son, Kyle Edney (Jodi); and grandchildren, Asa and Kinsley Edney. She also leaves behind her niece, Cynthia Pace; nephew, Lathan Pace; and a large extended family who will forever cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her father, Walter Pace, and her beloved son, Todd Edney.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at First Baptist Church in Saluda, NC. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Travis Parker officiating. 

After the service, all are welcome to join the family for a reception at the church, where stories, smiles, and cherished memories will be shared in celebration of Karen’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Foothills Humane Society or First Baptist Church of Saluda, NC.

Karen’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

An online guest register is available at mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com

McFarland Funeral Chapel & Crematory

Tryon