Karen Gaston

Karen Gaston, passed away on May 5, 2025, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, at the age of 61. Born on April 5, 1964, in Muncie, Indiana, Karen dedicated her life to helping others. Her warm-hearted nature and caregiving spirit endeared her to countless individuals throughout her career, making a lasting impact on those she served.

Karen was a proud and devoted grandmother, cherishing her time spent with her grandchildren—Aubree, Ava, and Taytum—whose joys and milestones were a source of immense happiness for her. Her love for family extended deeply; she is survived by her daughters, Deena, Brittany (Derek), Dixie (Colton), and Zane, her brother Wayne and best friend Hub Gaston.

Karen's interests included collecting treasures, journaling, and coloring, hobbies that reflected her creative and nurturing personality. She held a special place in her heart for the people around her, always willing to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. She devoted sixteen years as a drug and alcohol counselor. She was also one of the four founding members of the SOS NA group in Hot Springs. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Geri Boyd and Oscar Howard, and her siblings, Johnny Howard, and Brian Howard as well as one daughter April. Their memories and legacy continue to live on in the hearts of her family.

A visitation will be held on May 7, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at the Smith Family Funeral Home Chapel located at 2205 Airport Road, Hot Springs, Arkansas, starting at 2:00 PM. Friends and family are invited to come together to honor Karen's life and celebrate her enduring spirit.

Pallbearers will be: Hub Gaston, Drew Harvey, Derek Floyd, Colton Lindsey, Tim Duncan, and Wayne Howard.