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Karen Eileen Barrett Lerma passed from this life to life eternal on March 31, 2021. She was born on June 9, 1954, in San Antonio, Texas to Wayne and Oleane Barrett. Karen was a graduate of Robert E. Lee High School and was very active in creating “All Class” reunions that were held yearly for alumni. Having attended Texas A&M University in College Station, Karen was an “Aggie” that bled maroon. As someone who enjoyed working with people, Karen began her career in the hotel industry as Sales and Catering and Conventions Manager at St. Anthony Hotel in San Antonio. She created events and programming with special attention to precise and intricate details. Karen later worked at Mount Wesley Conference Center, in Kerrville, Texas, as Events Coordinator, working closely with the people that she served to ensure that their experience was nothing less than perfect. Anyone who knew Karen was aware that she was a huge Elvis fan. She collected memorabilia, enjoyed recalling the concerts that she was fortunate enough to attend, and made it very clear that she felt that he was the “sexiest man that ever walked the Earth!” If you ever rode in the car with Karen, you would be blessed with her singing along to the Elvis Station on the radio. It is very possible, at this time, that Elvis has a heavenly protective order against her. Little girls love Barbies. Karen continued that love from childhood. She was a collector and took great pride in showing all of her beautiful dolls. She was also a student of genealogy. It began with her mother researching family history. Karen traveled with her mother gathering data and documenting this information for future generations. It was a great passion for her. The color purple was her signature color. She loved it. She draped herself in it. It was a prominent part of her persona and personality. Karen never met a stranger. Her vibrant personality, and contagious smile, made everyone immediately feel close and love her. She had a huge heart and helped others with her support and love. In 1982, Karen married William Timothy “Tim” Craig. Together, they created a family and produced three sons: Ryan, Alex and Sean. Her sons, whom she referred to as “her bouncing baby boys”, were the pride and joy of her life. Though this union did not stand the test of time, Karen and Tim remained close friends until his death. On November 21, 2020, Karen married Joe Lerma. She had found her soul mate in this life with Joe. The love that they shared was undeniably powerful. Though it was only for a short time, that love was enough for a lifetime. We give thanks that they found each other and that she was happy until the end. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne and Oleane Barrett. She is survived by her husband, Joe Lerma; Sons, Ryan Craig, Alex Craig (Katie), Sean Craig (Elizabeth); Brother: Olin Wayne Barrett (Joan); Sisters: Anna Marie Gallagher (Fred) and Elizabeth Barrett Cover (Robert); Step-daughters: Melanie Castillo, Emily Morales (John), Stacy Rendon (Justin); 11 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, numerous nieces and nephews and extended family and friends. Those serving as Pallbearers are: Ryan Craig, Alex Craig, Sean Craig, Bryan Cover, Collin Gray and Brent Lowak. Officiant for Funeral services is Rev. Andy W. Smith. Karen’s Celebration of Life services are as follows: Visitation will be held Friday evening, April 9th, from 6-8 at Mission Park Funeral Chapels North at 3401 Cherry Ridge, 78230. Please be cognizant of the fact that many people will show up to pay their respects and we need to follow guidelines for Covid. We would love to see you wearing purple. Funeral services will be held April 10th, at 12 PM, Fred J. Tips Mausoleum Chapel at Mission Burial Park North at the Dominion 20900 IH 10 W, 78257 to be followed by burial at the same location. Funeral service is by private invitation but if you wish to attend the burial you may do so. You may wait outside the chapel at 12:30 PM to wait for the family procession. It is within walking distance. We will host a celebration of Karen’s life on Sunday, April 11 at Las Chiladas at 2387 NW Military Highway from 5-9 PM. There will be a limited menu. There will be music and tributes. We would love for you to wear purple in honor of Karen’s memory.

Tributes

Karen Barrett Lerma

June 9, 1954 - March 31, 2021