Karen Bridget Labroi

Karen was born on May 28, 1950, to the late Lester and Rosella LaBroi. The only daughter among four children, Karen professed her hope in Christ at a young age and attended First Baptist Church with her family.

She graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1968, where she was a proud member of the Future Teachers of America and even sang background for the legendary Harry Belafonte. A passionate advocate for education, Karen earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Lincoln University in 1972. While at Lincoln, she became a cherished member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, remaining a devoted member throughout her life. She later completed her Master of Education at Howard University.

While visiting a friend in Louisville, Kentucky, Karen felt called to stay. There, she began working for the City of Louisville as an Affirmative Action Officer and served as a member of the mayor’s staff.

Eventually, Karen embraced her true calling: education. As a teacher, she dedicated decades to empowering students and helping them reach their fullest potential. Her passion and commitment left a lasting impression — many of her former students returned to thank her for her guidance and care. She served at multiple schools before retiring from J-Town High School.

In her later years, Karen became affiliated with Soka Gakkai International, where she cultivated lifelong friendships and found renewed spiritual community. For the past 20 years, she was an active member of the Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) of Louisville, where she also served on the board of directors.

Karen’s life was a shining example of what it means to live with purpose: Live fully. Love deeply. Help others. Be true to yourself.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lester and Rosella LaBroi, and her brother, Jerry LaBroi.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her beloved wife and partner of 30 years, Tarita Hayes; her brothers Lester “Bud” LaBroi and Michael LaBroi (Rhonda); her aunt Shirley and uncle Robert; her goddaughter Carmelita Perry; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends — especially Debbie McWhorter, Valerie Bruadnaxm, Lynette Batiste, and Wanda Harmon and Stanley (Skip) Griffin.

A visitation for Karen will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025 from 11AM to 1PM at St. Andrew United Church of Christ, 2608 Browns Ln, Louisville, KY 40220. A funeral service will follow at 1PM.