Karen was born in Neodesha, KS to parents Thebert and Pearl (Coleman) Gilstrap.  She grew up in a farm outside Cherryvale, KS and graduated from Labette County High School.  On July 1, 1961 she was united in marriage to Bill Taylor at First Baptist Church in Cherryvale, and they made their first home in Tulsa, OK.

In 1974 they moved to Independence, KS and eventually build a log home together in the country.  Karen was a full-time homemaker, who volunteered for years at Mercy Hospital.  She loved to read, make cookies, and pamper her cats.  Though a homebody by nature, she and Bill did a little traveling, including a trip to Europe.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, her parents, and her brother Dean.  She is survived by her children, Shari (Michael) Howard of Holden, MO, and Kevin (Renee) Taylor of Lawrence KS, grandchildren Ashley Taylor, Aaron Taylor, and Kennedy Gonzalez (Steven), two great grandchildren, and her sister Marlene Barker.

Funeral arrangements have been made with Potts Chapel, Independence.  Graveside service will be held Friday October 30 at 10am at Mount Hope Cemetery in Independence, KS.  Memorial Donations can be made to Ascend Hospice. Alzheimer's Association , or the charity of your choice.