Karen Kelly Schooling of Independence, MO, was called to her heavenly home Wednesday, October 30,2024 at the age of 69, after her courageous battle with cancer. Karen faced her illness with incredible strength and grace. She passed away, peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones.

Karen leaves behind many who loved her, her companion of 18 years, David Maldonado, Devoted sister to Edward J. and Anita Kelly, Maureen Kelly Short, Shawn W. and Kimberly Kelly, Timothy P. Kelly and Heather Kelly-Connell; cherished aunt to Katie, Grace, Matt, Dalton, Taylor, Ian, Colin, Marina, Sheenah, Nate, Shane, Casey, Megan, Timothy, Hope, Lauren, Patrick, Madison, Austin and Emina; treasured great aunt to Bella, Jude, Ryder, Louis, Phillip and Kennedy.

Karen is preceded in death by her husband, Richard A. and her son Ryan J. Schooling, her parents Edward J. and Loretta Kelly, her nephews Edward J. Kelly III and Tristen P Kelly.

Karen was a deeply devoted mother to Ryan, her special needs son, for 34 years. She was selfless and an altruistic mother who always had a smile on her face, even when she was faced with the toughest of times. Karen had a quiet and dignified strength. She never complained and always looked at the caring for Ryan as a Blessing from God. He was her gift. Ryan was her angel on earth and son, for whom she had the privilege to care for.

Karen was a flight attendant with American Airlines for over 50 years. Karen began her career in St. Louis, MO, in 1974 with Ozark Airlines, which later became TWA and then later became American Airlines. Despite being able to choose any route in the world, she primarily worked domestic routes so she could be home as much as possible to care for her son.

Karen was deeply devoted to her faith and was a member at St. Mary Catholic Church in Independence, MO. Karen was ever calm in her faith. Her character and temperament can be best shown from the many trials she endured in her life. Her latest trial being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in March 2024. Karen had every right to cry or be angry after her diagnosis, but instead she loved and lived every moment she was given with grace and gratitude. She didn’t allow hard times nor cancer to rob her of who she was. Always dignified and graceful, until God called her home.

Karen was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

A Catholic mass will be held for Karen on March 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, 2 Seton Court, St. Charles, MO 63303