Karen Louise Riggins

Karen Louise Athey Riggins, aged 63, a resident of Culleoka, Tennessee, passed away on Monday, September 25, 2023, at NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center.

Born on September 11, 1960, in Northridge, California, Karen was the daughter of the late Ralph V. Athey and the late Helen Stafos Athey. She was a 1978 graduate of Royal High School in Simi Valley, California. Karen dedicated her entire career to the banking industry, serving as a bank manager for First Farmers and Merchants Bank in Columbia until her retirement. Karen had a lifelong love for all sports, with a special place in her heart for the Los Angeles Dodgers. In her younger days, she was an active participant in softball. Karen found joy in beach destinations, attending races, and dancing and was an avid reader, with a particular fondness for 70's game shows, concerts, and country music.

However, her true treasures in life were her family and friends. Karen possessed a heart of gold, overflowing with love for her family. She cherished spending time with her nieces and nephews, creating cherished memories that will forever endure. Karen will be profoundly missed, and her warmth and love will always be remembered.

Left to honor her memory are her devoted sisters, Marsha (Butch) Farmer, Debbie (Mike) O’Connell, and Cheryl (Dave) Smith. She also leaves behind eleven nieces and nephews, Derek Abbott, Amy Estey, Lindsey Gilbert, Christy Jackson, Shannon Carpenter, Jimmy Frazier, Chad Frazier, Bryan Frazier, Charlie Athey, J. D. Gallina and Dani Frazier, and several great nieces and nephews, her faithful companion, Amber, a special friend, Jamie Herzer Kohan, and a multitude of friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

In addition to her parents, Karen was preceded in death by her siblings, Douglas Edward Athey and Cindy Frazier Coggin, as well as her grandparents, Ralph and Marion Athey.

The family plans to celebrate Karen's life with services at a later date. Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements. Karen's memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her, and her legacy of love and laughter will be carried forward by those who loved her most.