Karen A. Ashbaugh

Karen Adelia (Bell) Ashbaugh, 85, of Ellis, Kansas, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025, in Denton, TX. She was born on November 9, 1939, in Moscow, Kansas.

Karen was a devoted wife to the late Darwin Ashbaugh, whom she married in Moscow on August 2, 1964. Together, they built a life centered on faith, love, and service. Darwin preceded her in death in 2008, after 43 years of marriage.

Above all, Karen was a proud and loving mother to her son Mike Ashbaugh, wife Jodi, and grandmother to Erin and Bryce Ashbaugh. She took great joy in their achievements, and they were a constant source of support and love for her.

An educator at heart, Karen spent many years as a teacher in the Ellis and Palco School systems, where she touched the lives of countless students. She had a unique ability to inspire those she taught.

Karen was a member of the United Methodist Church in Ellis, where she actively participated in the church community. She also enjoyed quilting and developed many lifelong friends. She was a member of KNEA during her time as an educator.

Karen is survived by her son Mike Ashbaugh (Jodi), and her grandchildren Erin & Bryce Ashbaugh, all of Denton, TX. She is also survived by her sisters, Helen Felzein, Kay Thompson, Ronda Fondoble and brother, Jim Bell, along with many extended family members and friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband Darwin, her parents, William and Mary Bell, sisters, Mildred Cassidy and Dorothy Ladnier, brothers, Jack, Allen, and Doug Bell.

She will be remembered as a woman of strength, deep faith, and a compassionate educator, who left a lasting impact on those around her.

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the United Methodist Church in Ellis, Kansas, with Pastor Scott Tempero officiating. 

Interment immediately following at Mount Hope cemetery in Ellis, Kansas, where she will be laid to rest beside her husband Darwin. 

Visitation hours will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 E. 17th in Ellis, Kansas. 

Memorial contributions in Karen’s honor may be made to the Ellis United Methodist Church, 1201 Washington St, Ellis, KS 67637.

Memories may be shared on Karen's tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com