Karen Estella Fultz

Karen Estella Fultz, age 73, of Independence, Missouri passed away on Sunday, January 9, 2022. She was a graduate of Fort Osage High School. Karen had a passion for hairstyling; she received her certificate of hairstyling in 1989 and launched a career as a barber. Since 2001 she had owned and operated The Style Corner in Buckner, Missouri, and in the following two decades formed numerous friendships in that close-knit community.

Karen enjoyed both her daily coffee/dinner visits with her close friend Linda and spending her off days shopping with her sister Barbara. She loved talking on the phone—to and from work—to those she held closest to her heart. And she loved calling her daughter, son-in-law, or grandsons to report that some form of technology “wasn’t working.” In those moments she was often frustrated but also kind, patient, and curious - and she embraced every moment she engaged with them.

Karen’s passion for hairstyling was only surpassed by her love of family and friends. She was a hard-working single mother to Robin Thrasher (and spouse Chris) of Blue Springs; a cherished grandmother to Christopher Hendrix of Blue Springs and Dylan Hendrix (and partner Carrie Kucharski) of Independence; and a fur mom to her true love, Ziva. She was a loving sister to her eight siblings; survived by Billy Fultz, Barbara Charles, Ronnie Fultz (and wife Maxine) and Larry Fultz (and wife Clarkie) and preceded in death by Orville Fultz Jr., Johnny Fultz, Claude Fultz, and Charlene Gillette.

Karen had numerous nieces and nephews who held a very special place in her heart; she loved to spoil them when they were little and, when they were grown, let them know she always had their back. There was rarely a conversation with Karen that didn’t include a story about a niece or nephew, and many of her most valued memories were the times she spent with her family. Although there are too many to name, know that she loved each and every one of you with her whole heart.

It is hard to comprehend that someone could have that much love to give, but Karen certainly did. She was a generous spirit, always looking for ways to help or give. She was strong in the most subtle of ways. She will be missed by those fortunate enough to share a room with her, those fortunate enough to share a cup of coffee and a story and a laugh. The world will not be the same without Karen.

Visitation services will be held on Monday, January 17th from 4PM-6PM at Speaks Chapel, 18020 E 39th Street, Independence, MO 64055. Service is immediately following at 6PM, where family and friends are encouraged to share your fondest memories and funniest stories of Karen. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Animal Rescue Alliance T.A.R.A (tarasdream.org) or Always and Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary (alwaysandfurever.org).