Karen Renee Stout (Docksteiner), nee Foster, 76, of O’Fallon, IL, born Friday, December 16, 1949, in El Paso, TX, passed away surrounded by her family on Monday, July 27, 2026 at Cambridge House of O’Fallon, IL.
Karen dedicated her life to caring for others. As a talented seamstress, she created beautiful pieces with patience and skill, stitching each one with love. She did aftercare at Jefferson Elementary and also found her calling as a home healthcare provider with Visiting Angels, where she compassionately cared for others with a gentle heart, a warm smile, and unwavering dedication.
Karen embraced life with joy. She loved to dance and could always find a reason to celebrate the moment. She never knew a stranger and believed everyone deserved a friendly greeting. Whether she was out running errands or meeting someone for the first time, Karen was known for saying “hi” to everyone, making others feel seen, welcomed, and valued.
She found happiness in baking cookies for family and friends, filling her home with warmth and the sweet smell of homemade treats. She also loved crafting and crocheting, using her talents to create gifts that brought comfort and joy to others.
Above all else, Karen was a true giver. She lived a life centered on serving others, always putting their needs before her own. Even while she was in the hospital, she continued thinking of those around her, spending her time crocheting for people in need. Her compassion never wavered, even in her final days.
Karen’s giving spirit continued beyond her lifetime through the gift of tissue donation. In one final act of selfless love, she gave others hope and the opportunity for healing, ensuring that her legacy of compassion would continue to touch lives for years to come.
Karen will be remembered for her generous heart, her joyful spirit, her infectious smile, and the kindness she freely shared with everyone she met. She taught those around her that life’s greatest purpose is found in loving others, giving freely, and treating every person like a friend.
Though her family and friends grieve her passing, they also celebrate a life beautifully lived-a life marked by grace, service, laughter, and unconditional love. Karen’s memory will remain a blessing, and her legacy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.
She was preceded in death by her:
- Former husband:
- Norman L. Docksteiner
- Parents:
- Joel and Mildred, nee Hill, Foster
- Sisters:
- Linda Irvin
- Patricia Steward
Surviving are her:
- Children:
- Sherry Cline of Smithton, IL
- Tammy Walters of O’Fallon, IL
- Christie Parker-Williams of Fairview Heights, IL
- Michael (Christina) Docksteiner of Smithton, IL
- Grandchildren:
- Patrick Cline II
- Alyssa Cline
- Kylee Walters
- Brandon (Rachel) Walters
- Sydney (Evan Vaughn) Walters
- Derrian (Lindsey Cauley) Parker-Williams
- Jared Parker-Williams
- Aldon (Alicia) Hagen III
- Richard (Courtney) Hagen
- Daniel (Melissa) Hagen
- James (Shayna McClelland) Mottershead
- Sister:
- Janice Cummins
Memorials: Memorials may be made to Family Hospice of Belleville.
Visitation: Visitation from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Friday, July 31, 2026 at Kurrus Funeral Home in Belleville, Illinois.
Services: Funeral Service will be held at 7:00 p.m., Friday, July 31, 2026 at Kurrus Funeral Home.
Interment: A Procession will leave Kurrus Funeral Home at 1:15 p.m., Saturday, August 1st, 2026 for a 1:30 p.m. Graveside Service at Lake View Memorial Gardens in Fairview Heights, IL.
A Celebration of Her Life “Potluck Style” will be from 4:00 – 9:00 p.m., Saturday, August 1st, 2026 at the American Legion in O’Fallon, IL. Please feel free to bring your favorite dish.
