Karen Rae Renfro, aged 84, of Warrensburg, Missouri, went to be with her Lord on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the Warrensburg Manor Care Center.

Born on February 9, 1941, in Edinburg, Missouri, Karen was the middle of three daughters born to Albert "Ray" and Viola (Lawrence) Pollard. After graduating from Trenton High School, she married John Henry Renfro, Jr. at the First Baptist Church in Trenton. Throughout John's four-year Air Force career, the couple resided in Colorado, Florida, Germany, and ultimately returned to Trenton.

In 1978, Karen and family moved to Independence, Kansas where her interest in Early Childhood Education began to flourish. Karen taught preschool at the Presbyterian Church and discovered Maria Montessori's Method of Education that would serve her well when she and John relocated to Overland Park in 1983. Karen's interest in the Montessori Method resulted in her accepting an offer to receive Montessori training and teaching preschool and Kindergarten at the Mission Hills Lutheran Church.

Karen sang and played the piano from the time of her youth. She continued her interest in music by learning the violin in her 50's while living in Overland Park.

After her husband passed in 2009, Karen moved to Warrensburg where she lived with her daughter and family.  She quickly became involved in the community and made Warrensburg her home. She was a friend to everyone she met.

Karen's community involvement included a local book club, a knitting group, numerous activities at the Senior Center, and being a former member of the Warrensburg WD-40 social group.

In the last months of her life, Karen lived at Warrensburg Manor. She loved the staff and residents.  She enjoyed participating in arts and crafts and socializing.

Karen was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, and homemaker. She instilled the joy of lifelong learning to her children and students.  She enjoyed playing Chinese checkers, reading many different genres although mysteries were her favorite.  Karen also watched and supported PBS's Masterpiece Theater.

Karen was an active member of the First Christian Church where she participated faithfully throughout her life. She loved Jesus and encouraged friends and family by sharing Christian devotions and participating in Bible study. Karen endeavored to lead others to follow Jesus.

Karen is survived by her daughter, Suzan Kirkendall (Todd); her grandchildren, Christopher Kirkendall (Nayvi) and Andrea Kirkendall; her great-grandchild, Tristam Kirkendall. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son John Brian Renfro, and sisters Clarice Pushkarsky and Linda Hudson. She will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Warrensburg, MO.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 13, 2025, officiated by Pastor Tim Whitmore at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Warrensburg. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service. Arrangements entrusted to Williams Funeral Chapel in Warrensburg.

Karen will be laid to rest next to her husband John and son John Brian at Resthaven Mortuary in Trenton, MO at a later date.

Online condolences may be submitted at www.williamsfuneralchapel.net