Karen Sumner Edmands

Karen Sue Sumner-Edmands, known lovingly as Karen Edmands, was an embodiment of compassion, generosity, and humility. Born on May 21, 1956, in Washington, IN, she made her mark on the world through love, service, and an unwavering commitment to the values she held dear. Her life journey led her to Ashby, Massachusetts, where she became a beloved figure within her community and beyond.

Karen's professional journey as a paraprofessional with the North Middlesex Regional School District and BOCES in the Guilderland Central School District was not merely a job, but a calling. She poured her heart into her work, touching countless lives with her loving nature and unique ability to inspire. Her passion for teaching was only surpassed by her love for her family, especially her adored grandchildren. Karen was a staunch Democrat, valuing dialogue and unity above divisive political rhetoric. Karen believed in working hard and being fiscally responsible; her prudence and perseverance led to notable financial achievements that she took great pride in, although she was always ready for a little Keno or a scratcher. Her generous spirit extended beyond people to animals as well, especially her cherished cat Biscuit and her beloved pets who had passed on: Jasper, Simon, Troubles, and her sheltie Buddy.

Karen cherished her extended family and held precious memories with the Bardwell's and her extended family close to her heart. Her humility and love were a beacon to all who knew her, and her legacy will continue to inspire. Karen was predeceased by her mother, Ruth Mossey, and brothers Daniel Sumner, David Sumner, and John Sumner. She is survived by her husband, Karl Edmands, her daughters, Nicole Becker (Thomas) and Kimberly Drescher (Blaine), her grandchildren Nicholas, Nathan, Andrew, Dolly, and Lakelynn, her sisters Marilyn McLaughlin, Theresa Williams, and Dorothy Matura, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews, stepchildren, and extended family members.

As Maya Angelou once said, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Karen Edmands made everyone feel loved, valued, and cherished, and that is her enduring legacy.

Service information will be added at a later date. We are also very grateful for the services provided by Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, MA. We encourage all who knew and loved Karen to share their memories and upload photos to her memorial page(s), keeping her spirit alive in our hearts and minds.