Karen J. Hollies, 86, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, passed away on Thursday, April 13, 2023 surrounded by her loved ones. Karen was born August 12, 1936 to Paul and Virginia Stine in Peoria, IL. She was a graduate of Holy Cross Central School of Nursing, South Bend, IN and earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ball State University, Muncie, IN.

Karen grew up in Elwood, IN where she met her husband, Samuel J. Hollies. They married in 1962. Karen and Sam lived in different parts of the United States throughout their marriage and spent a significant number of years in Chagrin Falls, OH before retiring to Virginia Beach. In addition to her career in nursing, Karen was an avid water-colorist and participated on the liturgy committee of Church of the Holy Family, Virginia Beach. She was known for her sense of fashion and her quick wit.

Karen is predeceased by her parents, brother L. Paul and her husband, Sam. She is survived by daughters Mary Benchik (Ted) and Maggie Rozek (Steve), grandchildren Kegan Jordan, Steve and Hannah Benchik, Quaid Primm, Levi and Lila Rozek.

A viewing and visitation with family members will take place at 1pm on Friday, May 19, 2023 followed by a funeral mass at 2pm at Church of the Holy Family, 1279 Great Neck Rd., Virginia Beach. In lieu of flowers, please visit the following websites to make a contribution in Karen’s honor: Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad (https://vbvrs.networkforgood.com/) or American Lung Association (www.lung.org).