Karen Barbee

Ms. Karen Barbee, 70, of Clayton, North Carolina, passed away peacefully Wednesday, July 22, 2020, at SECU Hospice House in Smithfield. Karen was born on September 23, 1949, in Charlotte, the daughter of the late Marjorie and Gary L. Ashford, Sr. She graduated from North Mecklenburg High School in 1967 and received a BA from East Carolina University. Karen retired after working many years in the Office of Student Financial Aid at East Carolina University. She enjoyed reading, playing cards and playing games, especially Upwords. She loved beach music and shagging. Her greatest joy was her family, and she adored her granddaughter.

Ms. Barbee is survived by her son, Scott Barbee (Sunisha); granddaughter, Kinsley Barbee; siblings, Gary L. Ashford, Jr (Hope) and Robin Tomei (Rick); nieces and nephew, Kathleen Sterling (Josh), Kristine Kazian (Brian), Brent Tomei and Katelyn Smith (Ryan) and two great nieces, Caroline and Kira Sterling.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 27, 2020 at 1 PM at McEwen Funeral Home at Sharon Memorial Park with a memorial service and interment to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to SECU Hospice House of Johnston Health.