Karen M. Brown-Coash

Karen M. Brown-Coash, 73, of Springfield, passed away on October 29, 2024 at her residence. She was born on October 2, 1951 in Tuscon, Arizona to John Brown and Kathleen Patton Brown. Karen married Brad Coash in Belleville, Illinois on September 4, 1998 and he survives.

She is also survived by three siblings: John Brown of St. Louis, Barbara Brown of Belleville and Kathleen M. Hewko of Del Ray, New Jersey as well as several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two brothers: Kevin and Brian Brown.

Karen received her Bachelor’s Degree from Benedictine Catholic College in Kansas, her MBA from SIU Edwardsville and was working towards her PhD from SIU Carbondale. She taught for seven years in Breese, Illinois and then taught at O’Fallon Township High School. Karen was the Executive Director of Illinois Vocational Association, the Executive Director of the Belleville Area Mental Health Clinic and she was a Master Teacher for the State of Illinois.

Karen was a Laureate of Lincoln Academy, a lobbyist for Education in the State of Illinois and a member of Phi Delta Kappa. She received the National Network for Curriculum in Vocational and Technical Education Award and was recognized by the United States Senate for her work on labor, productivity and employment for Senator Paul Simon. She received the St. Clair County Award given by the Honorable Martha K. O’Malley and the Illinois Governor for being an outstanding teacher. She received an Award of Merit from the Illinois Vocational Association for her contribution to education.

Karen had a wonderful sense of humor and her Irish storytelling skills were always at the forefront. Karen loved all of her students, had a big heart and would go out of her way to help others. She was a military brat and lived all over the world. Karen was one of a kind, funny, caring, generous, dedicated and always had long term friendships. She was a great Laureate and writer who loved her politics. Karen had a passionate dedication to ensure that the students of the State of Illinois have viable options available to them in the form of vocational education.

Cremation rites were accorded and a memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Bishop McNamara High School: https://www.bishopmac.com/page/support which was dear to our families hearts.