Karen Hulsey

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Karen Joyce Cotton Hulsey, age 87, of Neosho, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home on July 18, 2025.

Karen was born on November 29, 1937, in Neosho to Roy E. and Cordelia (Hale) White. She was raised in a loving Christian home, a faith that remained central to her life and legacy.

Karen had a deep appreciation for beauty—whether in nature or the home. She loved gardening and flowers and especially enjoyed leisurely drives with her beloved husband, Bill, to admire blooms and landscapes. Her natural talent for interior design and impeccable taste brought beauty and warmth to every space she touched.

She loved the Lord wholeheartedly and was a faithful member of Northside Baptist Church, where she and Bill are among the congregation's longest-standing members. Karen played the organ at church and for many local funerals, a ministry she carried out with dignity and grace. Her children fondly remember accompanying her and sitting quietly behind the lattice during those solemn occasions.

Karen’s greatest joy was her family. She cherished time with them and shared a special bond with her faithful companion, Toby. She was meticulous in all that she did and instilled strong Christian values in her children—raising them in the same loving, faith-filled home that shaped her.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Bill Hulsey; her children: Jeff Cotton, Brent (Jennifer) Cotton, Mikell (Ann) Cotton, and Caroline Smith, all of Neosho, Missouri; Heath Hulsey of Kansas City, Kansas; and Courtney Hulsey of Lee’s Summit, Missouri. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Matthew, Michelle, Casey, Mitzi, Keisha, Kaity, and Charleston; and two nieces: Kristi (Rick) Lake and Marcy (Doug) Harrifield, and her ten great grandchildren.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Susan K. Showalwalter.

A woman of grace, faith, and quiet strength, Karen will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Karen may be made to Northside Baptist Church, c/o Clark Funeral Home, PO Box 66, Neosho, Missouri 64850.