With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Karen Ann Foley, a remarkable woman whose warmth, strength, and adventurous spirit touched all who knew her. Born and raised in Agawam, Massachusetts, to Russell and Lorraine Deziell, along with her brother, Russell (Skip), Karen lived a full and vibrant life.
In the 1960s, she took to the skies as a flight attendant for Mohawk Airlines, beginning a lifelong love of travel that took her to places near and far. An athlete at heart, Karen played semi-professional softball, embodying determination and teamwork both on and off the field. After raising children, she became a much-loved dental assistant in Wood River, Rhode Island. She also had a deep love for tennis, a sport that kept her active and brought her great joy throughout her life.
Beyond her adventurous and competitive spirit, Karen was a master in the kitchen. She loved cooking and baking, filling her home with delicious meals and sweet treats that became cherished family traditions. Whether trying a new recipe or perfecting an old favorite, she expressed her love through food, creating moments of joy and togetherness for those she loved most.
Above all, Karen was a devoted mother to Shaun and Sarah Foley Kerrigan and a proud grandmother to Phoebe, Cricket, Connor, Aidan, and Henley. She was their biggest supporter, always cheering them on and sharing her wisdom, kindness, and humor. Her love was a constant, her presence a gift, and her impact immeasurable.
In her later years, Karen shared a home with her best friend, Mary Barron, and their beloved dog, Ellie. Together, they filled their days with laughter, companionship, and the simple joys of life, proving that family is not just about blood, but about the love and connection we choose.
A beloved mother, grandmother, friend, and adventurer, Karen’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her family invites all who were touched by her warmth and generosity to celebrate her life in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor her memory by embracing the things she loved—sharing a meal with family, traveling somewhere new, or playing a game of tennis with friends.