Karla E. Rumsey

She was born in El Campo, Texas on July 30, 1951 to Melvin Harvey Bloom and Claire Mark. They moved soon after and she was raised in Houston, Texas.

Karla leaves behind to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Jay Rumsey; beloved sister, Jo Halfant (Louis); nephews, Marty (Jessica) and Ross Halfant; great-nephew, PJ Halfant; beloved stepchildren, Jeramy Rumsey (Mickie) and Brandy Wingert (Fred). Karla also leaves behind extended family of nine (9) grandchildren and ten (10) great-grandchildren.

Karla is predeceased by her father, Melvin Harvey Bloom; mother, Claire Mark Bloom Kline; and brother, Paul Mark Bloom.

Karla achieved her Doctorate of Optometry (Magna Cum Laude, 1975) from the University of Houston, Texas. She practiced Optometry at all levels: university didactic, clinical educational and private practice settings. Among her professional accomplishments, Karla had many publications and presentations in the different fields of Optometry at professionally peer reviewed levels. Her knowledge and skill earned her a membership to the Fellow of American Academy of Optometry, a membership she held for over 18 years. She was also professionally licensed in both Florida and Texas before retirement. She worked as an Assistant Professor at both the University of Houston (Texas) and Nova Southeastern University (Florida), College of Optometry, for half of her 40+ year career.

Karla had many hobbies throughout her life; she enjoyed reading books and watching mystery and action movies. She had a lifelong passion for country and bluegrass music and Karla loved to travel. When traveling Karla liked to go antique shopping and attend bluegrass music festivals.

Karla stood out in her professional and personal life for several reasons. Some of those reasons include her genuine love of teaching students in academic courses and clinical skills, her willingness to take part in any professional or personal activities, and her passion for providing extra support without regard to professional or personal relationship settings. Karla also stood out for her devotion to family and friends whenever or wherever needed, far beyond expectations.

Karla will be remembered for a loving heart and true devotion to family and friends. She showed never-ending love to a husband who was devoted to and adored a wonderful wife for more than 45 years of marriage.

A celebration of life for Karla will be held Monday, January 2, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Sunset North Funeral Home, 910 North Loop 1604 East, San Antonio, TX 78232.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared below for the Rumsey family.