Karen Sue Long, 52, North Manchester, Indiana, passed away surrounded by family on April 2, 2023, at her home. The daughter of Donald and Donna (Cripe) Long, Karen was born November 14, 1970, in Wabash, Indiana.
Karen graduated from Manchester High School in the spring of 1989. She attended Heartland Career Center in Wabash, where she learned the art of being a beautician. After graduation she worked at Heckman Bindery for a short period before transitioning to Trendz in North Manchester. In 1999 Karen created her own business in North Manchester, Designs at the Cabin. For Karen, cutting and styling hair was a means to connect with people on a deeper level, and her customers became her friends and family. When she wasn’t at her shop Karen enjoyed gardening, spending time with her family, and had a soft spot for all animals—especially dogs and bison. In more recent years, Karen was baptized at Life Church in Huntington, where she was a member.
For the last twenty years Karen found companionship with her love, Chris Brown. The two share a daughter, Cora, whom they both adore and love deeply. Karen had boundless energy, running 5K races for charity with Cora, sister Brenda, and niece Shanna, no matter how bad the weather. She had a strong moral compass and was companionate, fair, and selfless. Those around her knew that they were especially loved.
The loving memory of Karen Sue Long will be forever cherished by her father, Donald Long, Roann; mother, Donna (Cripe) Long, North Manchester; companion, Chris Brown, North Manchester; daughter, Cora Brown, North Manchester; sister, Brenda Helvey, North Manchester; several nieces and nephews; cousins; and all the friends she made over the years.
Family and friends may call Saturday, April 8, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling with Pastor Mike Hill and Elder Larry Cripe officiating. Burial will be at the North Manchester Old German Baptist Brethren Cemetery.
For those who wish to honor the memory of Karen Sue Long, memorial contributions may be made to: the Wabash County Animal Shelter, 810 Manchester Ave., Wabash, Indiana 46992; St. Jude Children Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105; or the Wabash County Cancer Society, P.O. Box 144, North Manchester, Indiana 46962.
The family has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.
Condolences may be emailed to mckeemortuary.com