By The Grace of God…
Karen G. English received her angel wings on January 30, 2023, in the comfort of her home surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 15, 1956, in Norfolk, VA to the late Rufus and Shirley Johnson.
On September 9, 2017, she married the love of her life Edward M. English, Sr. with whom she shared a marriage of care and dedicated devotion. Ed was her faithful caregiver until the Lord called her home. She received her education starting at Granby High School, along with her B.A. and master’s degree from Norfolk State University. She was a dedicated employee at Norfolk State University where she worked in the Financial Aid Department for more than 27 years.
Karen received her ordination as a Deacon at New Calvary Baptist Church, where she served faithfully until her health would no longer allow it. She was committed to several ministries at New Calvary Baptist Church, which included the Usher’s Ministry, Children’s Ministry, the Nursery, Sunday School (teacher), and the Culinary Ministry. Karen had a passion for her crossword puzzles and playing Candy Crush on her phone until the wee hours of the morning. She enjoyed her early year’s sewing and we can’t forget Karen baking, those delicious pound cakes, and sweet potato pies.
Karen will be remembered as a warrior, a true fighter, guiding others to live their lives as God has commanded and an inspiration to us all.
Karen leaves to cherish her memory; devoted husband of 6 years Edward English, Sr., son, Nicholas Bond, granddaughter Tatyana Golson, brother Clifton Johnson and a nephew, Sean Bempong, her mother-law, Cloateen Wideman, faithful sister-laws, Vergie Williams and Williemae Spruill (Theodore), adopted daughter and son, Denise Blanchard (Don), Edward English, Jr. Special friends she cherished as sisters, Sarah Brown and Renay Kirby, along with a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
“If I can help somebody as I travel along
If I can help somebody with a word or a song
If I can help somebody from doing wrong
No, my living shall not be in vain”
Lyrics by Mahalia Jackson