With deep sorrow and even deeper love, the family of Karen Jo Sena announces her peaceful passing on June 7, 2025, in Newport News, Virginia, at the age of 59. Born on November 16, 1965, in Oxnard, California, Karen lived life with a firecracker spirit, a quick wit, and a heart big enough to hold everyone she loved.

 Karen was the kind of woman who told it like it was—with a twinkle in her eye and a laugh that filled the whole room. She was funny, fiercely loyal, a little ornery when she felt like it (which was often), and never afraid to speak her mind. Her sass was legendary, her humor unmatched, and her presence unforgettable.

 She spent over a decade working at Ralphs (2008–2021), where she was known not just for getting the job done, but for keeping everyone laughing while she did it. But Karen’s most important role wasn’t something you could put on a résumé—it was being the heart of her family. Her greatest joy came from being “Grammy” to her beloved grandchildren, who lit up her world.

 Karen loved cooking (and was amazing at it), needlepoint, movies, and spending time surrounded by those she cared for most. She found magic in the little things—loud family dinners, inside jokes, and moments that turned into lasting memories. She created a home where laughter echoed and love was never in short supply.

 She was preceded in death by her parents, Travis and Nadine Stephenson; her dear friend, Inez; and her former husband and lifelong friend, William Gould.

Karen leaves behind a family who adored her: daughters Amanda Velazquez (David), Kali Gould, and Cheyanne Shipley (Steven); and her cherished grandchildren, Angelina, Melanie, and Liam, who were the light of her life. She is also survived by her sisters—Beverley, Cindy, Gwyn, Julie, and Lisa—along with a large and loving circle of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

 Karen’s legacy is one of laughter, love, resilience, and always telling the best stories. She taught us how to find humor in the hard times, joy in the everyday, and strength when we didn’t know we had any left. She will be deeply missed—and never forgotten.