Karen Ann Dickens

Karen Ann Dickens was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on August 14, 1943, to Clarence Asa Cook and Barbara Ruth Cook. She attended Sparta High School. Karen passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026, in Winter Haven, Florida.

Karen met her lifelong husband, Paul Dickens of Dothan, Alabama, and they were married on November 14, 1961. Together, they built a loving home and raised their family in Winter Haven, Florida.

Karen was a Christian and an avid reader of the word and a woman of deep faith.

She was the proud mother of four children: Barbara Ann Cooper; Paul Alan Dickens; Paula Denice Hays (Roland Hays); and Lance Scott Dickens (Diana Dickens).

Karen was also blessed with five grandchildren: Christopher Nathan Carpenter (Rebecca Carpenter), Lauren Nicole Barnett (Trey Barnett), Jennifer Renae Carpenter, Devon Nichole Campbell, and Eric Scott Dickens. She had five great-grandchildren: Lexi Barnett, Tyce Carpenter, Alex Witherington, Calvin Barnett, and Emmy Carpenter.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Dickens, and her sisters, Linda Traxler and Jean Seif. She is survived by her sisters, Christine Johnson (Ron Johnson) and Sheila Cook, her brother, Larry Cook, and several nieces and nephews.

Her grandchildren lovingly called her “Nana.” She played an important role in their early years, caring for them and capturing cherished memories through photographs. She was deeply proud of each of them.

Karen had a big heart for others, especially animals, often caring for strays and those in need. She found joy in helping people and showing kindness to everyone she met.

"A life filled with love leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories."

John 16:22 – Therefore, you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and “your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you.”

Hebrews 11:1 – Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen

To honor Karen’s life, the family welcomes memorial donations to the SPCA of Lakeland in lieu of flowers.