Karen Lucille Hesson

Karen Lucille Hesson, 73 of Madison Heights, Virginia, passed away on April 7, 2026. She was the daughter of Richard and Maxine (Dune) Gast.

Karen was born July 1, 1952, in Marion, Ohio. She attended school at Galion Ohio City Schools and graduated in 1970. Karen worked in medical records at Marion General Hospital until she retired and moved to Virginia with her family.

Karen was a patriot. She was an active member of the Lynchburg American Legion Auxiliary Unit 16. She was Past Historian of Unit 16 and achieved the Member of the Year Award in 2023. Karen was also a regular participant at the Lynchburg Monument Terrace Troop Rally every Friday.

Most of all Karen was a loving wife and mother. Karen lived her life by always having a smile on her face and being happy. She could always make a stranger a friend.

Karen is survived by her husband Ron, daughter Amanda, sisters Susan Brown, Utah, Linda (William) Luse, North Carolina and brother Larry (Deb) Gast, Ohio. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory, Madison Heights is assisting the family.