Karen Mitchell Tatum, 67, of Winston-Salem, NC, died peacefully on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her children and her beloved husband of nearly 47 years, David.

Karen was born on June 11, 1959, to Lucy Mitchell and the late William Mitchell in Danville, VA. After graduating from George Washington High School, she later attended Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem, NC, where she earned her nursing degree in 1986. Karen served as a registered nurse at various medical centers throughout Winston-Salem. Following her retirement, she continued to share her nurturing spirit by serving for several years on the daycare board and as the daycare director at her church, First Baptist Church of Welcome, NC, where she was a longtime member. In addition, she taught Sunday School, was involved in Vacation Bible School, and participated in WMU. In keeping with Karen's lifelong heart for serving others, she chose to donate her body to medical science so that her legacy could continue through education and research.

Karen loved spending time with her dear family and friends, exploring hobbies like decorating, quilting, and scrapbooking, and cherishing every moment with her grandchildren. Her beautiful smile and loving spirit brightened the lives of all who knew her. Her faith in Christ guided her life and was evident in the compassion, generosity, and quiet strength she shared with everyone around her.

She is survived by her husband and the love of her life, David, of the home; her son, William Tatum (Mayghen Elliott) of Raleigh, NC; her daughter, Hillary Powers (Sam) of Winston-Salem, NC; her mother, Lucy Mitchell of Danville, VA; her sister, Rhonda Hankins (Matthew) of Lynchburg, VA; and a host of beloved brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews. She was a proud grandmother, affectionately known as "KK," to Joel, Shalane, Maggie, and a new grandbaby due in October. She was preceded in death by her father, William Mitchell. In addition, she will be remembered by countless friends and extended family as a loving, caring, and fiercely strong Christian woman.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 27, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Welcome, NC. Visitation will be held at 1 p.m., followed by the service at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Greater Things Outreach Center, a food pantry serving Welcome, NC, or to Trellis Supportive Care of Winston-Salem, which supported her throughout her journey.