Karen Marlene Johnson Proper, 79, of Franklin, passed away on Monday, August 17, 2026 at her home.

Daughter of the late Ruth and Carl Johnson, Karen was born on November 6, 1946 in Arizona.

She was a graduate of Allderdice High School in Pittsburgh and moved to Venango County when she began classes at Clarion Campus. After obtaining a bachelor's degree, Karen became an English teacher at Rocky Grove High School, where she taught until she retired.

Karen was a dedicated educator and gave the utmost care to her students. Hundreds of lives were touched by her time as a teacher, and she will be dearly missed by the students that entered her classroom. 

Karen was a very artistic individual. Many will remember her by the handmade Christmas cards she sent out every year. Karen was generous with her time and care, volunteering at the local humane societies and local hospice organization. Gardening was another one of her passions, and her love of the beach and a good book will not be forgotten. 

She adored her grandchildren. Taking care of them and taking them on trips to the library when they were little was one of her biggest joys. 

Karen was married to the late Gary Proper on August 1, 1970. He preceded her in death on September 13, 2003. 

She is survived by her daughter, Shannon Karns and her husband William, of Franklin, and son Jody Proper of Pittsburgh. Loved grandchildren, Kadin and Quinlyn Karns, are also left to cherish Karen's memory. 

Additionally surviving is sister Carla Tero and her husband Mike, of Maine.

In addition to her parents and husband, Karen was preceded in death by a sister, Lynn Barnett, a brother, Kent Johnson, and an infant grandson, Gavin Karns. 

Donations may be made in Karen's memory to the Venango County Humane Society 286 South Main Street Seneca, PA 16346 or the Oil Region Library Association by visiting oilregionlibraries.org. 

Honoring Karen's wishes, there will be no public services. 

Funeral arrangements are entrusted with Huff-Guthrie Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. 312 W Park St Franklin.

Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting huffguthrie.com.