Karen Leigh Spurling

Karen Leigh Spurling, a lifelong resident of Lexington, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at the age of 59 on April 20, 2024. Born on May 23, 1964, to Viola Traylor and the late Jimmy Barnett, Karen’s exuberant spirit and love for life left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.

Karen is survived by her loving husband, David Spurling; her children, Mark Allen Stinnett Jr., Matthew Ryan Spurling, and MacKenzie Leigh Spurling. She will be lovingly remembered by her cherished grandchildren, Jaydon Tyler Stinnett, Hunter Lee Spurling, and Elodie Elizabeth Spurling. She was a pillar of strength and joy in the lives of her mother, Viola Traylor; her brother and sister-in-law, Jimmy Harold Barnett Jr. and Krista; and her mother-in-law, Teresa Spurling Darnell, along with her husband, Chuck. Karen's love extended to her nieces and nephews: James Thomas Barnett, Raele Barnett, Kaylyn Barnett, and her brothers-in-law Mark Spurling (Kate), Dr. Ronald Spurling (Ana-Lisa), Aaron Spurling (Amanda). Her unwavering affection and guidance touched the lives of her close friend, Jayne Beer, and extended family members, Aaliyah Chee, Talaya Thurman, Taniya Thurman, and many other relatives and friends.

Karen's professional life was as spirited and impactful as her personal life. She dedicated 25 years to Audio Authority and Creation Technologies, where her work ethic and camaraderie were legendary. Following retirement, she embraced the role of a devoted homemaker and loving grandmother, enriching the lives of her grandchildren with love and merriment.

The outdoors was Karen's sanctuary, she was most joyous when mowing the grass with her zero-turn lawn mower, basking in the sun, and embracing the beauty of nature. Known as the life of the party, Karen had the extraordinary ability to make a friend out of a stranger; her loving and caring nature was as boundless as the Kentucky blue skies. Karen was not just a mother to her biological children but wore the title of "Mom" to all who had the pleasure of knowing her—her selflessness and kindness a true testament to her character.

Karen's loving presence and the heart she put into every interaction defined her legacy. She was a beacon of light and warmth in the lives of many, embodying love, kindness, and selflessness. Karen Leigh Spurling's memory will be carried forward in the stories shared, the laughter echoed, and the unspoken ways she made life better for those around her. Her spirit endures, guiding us like a North Star, towards living as she did—with open arms and an open heart.

Funeral services for Karen will be held on Friday, April 26, 2024 at 12:00 in the afternoon with Pastor Robert Raglan presiding. Interment will follow at Evergreen Memory Gardens in Bourbon County, Kentucky. Visitation will be prior to service from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Kerr Brothers Funeral Home, 463 East Main Street, Lexington, Kentucky, 40507, is in care of all arrangements for Karen Leigh Spurling. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Karen Leigh Spurling, please visit our floral store.