Karen Jane (King) Richardson, age 63, formerly of Swampscott and Salem, passed away unexpectedly at her home in Peabody on Wednesday July 19, 2017. Born in Chelsea on February 8, 1954, she was the daughter of the late Clarence W. and Florence E. (Hudson) King. Karen's innate curiosity throughout her life led her to a multitude of jobs; including real estate, home health-care, and management. She will always be remembered for her warm smile, her kind heart, and her green thumb. Her passion in life was plants; flowers and gardening brought her great joy.
Karen had a way about her that could turn strangers into friends within seconds—people would open up to her about anything and everything. Karen was very dedicated to her Christian faith, and some of her best times were spent within her church community. She was a dear mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She took enormous pride in her family, always holding tight to tradition, and especially loved holiday gatherings at her dear brother, Wayne's, every year. Karen is survived by her beloved son, Scott Richardson and his partner Cam; her sister, Deborah Houston and her husband Calvin of N.C.; her brother, Wayne King and his wife Debbie (Jackson) King of Lynn. Debbie took such special care of Karen during the last few years of her life, when her health began to decline. Debbie was a very special sister to Karen, and brought a quality to her life that cannot be expressed in words. Karen is also survived by her most cherished and life-long friends, Gail and Elena Veinot of Peabody, who were family to her; and many extended family members and friends. In addition to her parents, Karen was predeceased by her son, Brian King, and her nephew, Johnny Luciano.

Visitation and funeral service will be Wednesday, 9:30 – 12:30 in the Goodrich Funeral Home, 128 Washington Street, Lynn, followed by burial in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody.