Charlton: Karen Louise (Scudds) McArthur, 77, passed from this world with the confidence to spend eternity with her lord and savior, Jesus Christ, on Thursday, August 13, 2020 in The Overlook Masonic Health Center after a long illness. She leaves a daughter Lisa Marie Berthel and her husband Donald of West Brookfield; a son Bil McArthur and his wife Molly of West Boylston; 2 grandsons - Samuel and Elias Berthel; a sister- Lesley A. Goode of Worcester and many in-laws, cousins, nephews, nieces, great nephews & great nieces . She was predeceased by her husband and the love of her life, Charles H. "Bill" McArthur, Jr.; a brother Arthur N. Arakelian; and by 2 brothers-in-law William F. Robidoux and Timothy F. Goode.
Karen was born in Worcester, daughter of the late George Wesson Scudds and Maybelle Ella (Jarvis) Scudds Adams. She graduated from Commerce High School and worked many jobs over her lifetime including Big Discount Supermarket on Pleasant Street, West Side Pizza , where she worked with her two best friends Marie & Doris, Thom McAn Shoes, and Astra Pharmaceuticals. She was also employed as a customer service representative for National Grid where she worked until her retirement. After her retirement, Karen often served as a babysitter for her great-nephews, Sam and Erik, and the “Galvin Girls”, which she enjoyed immensely.
She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and was the gracious host of many summer cookouts and holiday gatherings. Christmas Eve was her favorite day of the year as all would congregate at her home on Tarrytown Lane for food, drink, and the annual measuring of the children on her kitchen doorway. Everyone would depart with their hearts full of love and their stomachs full of Karen's homemade fudge.
As much as Karen loved hosting get-togethers, she also loved to travel. Some of her favorite destinations include the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, Cape Cod, Stowe Vermont, and Sedona Arizona.
Some of the memories which gave Karen comfort during her final days include her shopping trips with her cousin Sandy, going out for dinner and a show with her friend Doris, listening to her daughter, Lisa Marie sing Patsy Cline songs, and her time spent with the Social Club at National Grid.
As a mother, Karen was proud and supportive of her children and their interests whether it be animals, computers, 4H, scouting, art, or even the occasional karaoke contest. This support continued with her grandchildren, Sam and Eli. Karen never missed a ball game, play, or concert. If you were looking for Karen at these events, it was easy to find her; she was always in the front row clapping the loudest.
Karen was a member of the Greenville Baptist Church. She loved her church family and enjoyed attending weekly services and various church events. Pastors Ken and Stephen and her church family were of great support and comfort to her in her final days for which her family is extremely grateful.
The family would also like to extend their thanks and gratitude to the staff at the Overlook Masonic Health Center Fieldstone and Skilled Nursing facilities for their compassionate care of Karen during the last 2 years.
At this time, all services are private. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Nordgren Memorial Chapel 300 Lincoln St. Worcester is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave an online condolence message, please click link.