Karen Ranie Pillow

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Karen R. Pillow, age 60, on January 11, 2025. Born on October 20, 1964, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Karen spent her life bringing warmth and joy to everyone she encountered. She resided in Claremore, Oklahoma, where her spirit and kindness touched the lives of her family, friends, and community. 

Karen’s career spanned retail management roles at Drysdales and Atwoods, where she led with dedication and care. However, her greatest joy was her role as a homemaker, creating a loving and welcoming home for her cherished family. 

She leaves behind her beloved husband and love of her life, Colonel James “Jim” Pillow. Jim’s son, Reid Pillow, who Karen loved and considered her own son. Reid blessed her with a granddaughter, Mira Pillow. Karen was a devoted mother to her daughter, Tonya Bell, and her husband Matt Bell. She was a proud grandmother to their daughters, Kallie Williams (married to Colby Williams) and Ember Bell, as well as Kallie and Colby’s son, Tucker Williams. 

Karen’s oldest son, Raymond Patterson, and his wife Megan Patterson gave her the joy of three granddaughters, Iris and Gema Patterson and Ella Macaruso. Her youngest son, Samuel Scherf, and his wife Malorie Scherf blessed her with two grandsons, Vann and Wess Scherf. 

She leaves behind 3 nieces, 3 nephews and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother and sister. 

Karen will always be remembered as a light in the lives of all who knew her. Her infectious laugh, quick wit, and ability to crack a joke to ease any tension made her someone you could always turn to. Karen loved to sing, dance, and bring joy to those around her. She had a natural love for plants, gardening, traveling with Jim, cooking and the great outdoors. She wasn’t afraid to get her boots dirty, always ready to jump in and help anyone in need. 

Though Karen had a down-to-earth spirit, she also carried a sense of elegance. She loved to dress to impress, effortlessly lighting up every room she entered. She was the heart and soul of her family, a source of strength, joy, and boundless love. 

Karen’s legacy is one of kindness, laughter, and beauty—both inside and out. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate to know her. 

A celebration of her life will be held January 17th, 2025, at MMS-Payne Funeral Home in Claremore, OK at 11:00am. Viewing at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you honor Karen’s memory by sharing kindness and joy with those around you, just as she did every day.