Karen Ann (Ray) Thibodeaux, fondly known as Cookie to a select few but mostly preferred Karen, was born on the eighth of August, 1946 and gently passed away on the twenty-second of September, 2025. Her life was adorned with fond affection, life lessons, and a radiant spirit that continues to inspire.

Her family was deeply important to her. She leaves behind two devoted daughters, Stephanie Latimer and Sherry Riddle. She was preceded in death by her brother, Charles Ray, but is survived by her brother, Richard Ray Jr. She had a unique bond with her nephews, Michael and Thomas Ray. The matriarch of her family, Catherine Elizabeth Biggart, who was her beloved grandmother, predeceased her. Karen's legacy continues through her grandchildren, Dariane and Jaxon Schwartz.

Karen's academic endeavors began in Erie, PA, where she graduated from East High School in 1965. She then went on to graduate from a Cosmetology School in 1969 and the Bryman School for Medical Assisting in 1977. Her versatility and ceaseless determination led her through a variety of careers throughout her lifetime, a journey that she always considered one of her greatest accomplishments.

With a palate for Chinese cuisine, Wise Potato Chips, and Krispy Kreme, Karen relished the world of flavors. She was partial to a Diet Coke and True Crime books. Karen was particularly fond of tunes from Barry Manilow and Linda Ronstadt. She enjoyed a good TV drama like Forensic Files and Amazing Race, while her favorite movies included Thelma and Louise, It's a Wonderful Life, and The Silence of the Lambs.

Her favorite forms of recreation ranged from going out to eat to simply dancing. The beach was her personal haven for vacations. Locally, she enjoyed the vibrant energy of The French Quarter/Bourbon Street. Her heart always held a special place for her children, grandchildren, and cats.

Known for her thoughtful nature, intelligence, and problem-solving skills, Karen was a beacon of perseverance. She believed in the importance of organization and cleanliness, always ensuring her environment was comfortable and neat. Her favorite color was red. Karen truly personified her beliefs and ideals in her day-to-day life.

Karen's legacy is a demonstration of a lifetime of tolerance and perseverance. This sentiment, coupled with her warm memories of childhood pets, Champ the pony and Jigs the goat, will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A special thanks to the many staff and friends she made at Fresenius of Apache Junction for their exceptional care and support

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