Karen Marie Sharp

Karen Marie Sharp, 72, of Solon, Iowa—formerly of Bettendorf and Peoria, Arizona—passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, surrounded by the comfort of familiar things.

Family and friends are invited to gather and share memories from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. on Friday, August 15, 2025 at McGinnis-Chambers Funeral Home in Bettendorf. Karen will be laid to rest next to her parents at Davenport Memorial Park. In honor of her kind and giving spirit, memorials may be made to the CommUnity Crisis Services (Food Bank) of Iowa City where she was a faithful volunteer.

Born on April 10, 1953, in Davenport, Karen was the daughter of Donald and Catherine (Keenan) Sharp. Karen graduated from Bettendorf High School and earned her nursing degree from Scott Community College,—a profession that perfectly matched her caring and empathetic nature.

Karen dedicated her life to helping others, first as a Registered Nurse at the former Franciscan Hospital in Rock Island, various other Quad-City Hospitals and later in Arizona, where she built a life with her longtime partner and best friend, Wayne Smith. She found deep fulfillment in her work, especially in her later years as a case manager for CIGNA, where her patients and coworkers alike were drawn to her calm strength and gentle nature.

Outside of work, Karen filled her days with the things she loved most. Her flower beds were always in bloom, her kitchen often filled with the delicious scents of her latest creation, and her home was a reflection of her creative touch. She had a love for reading, a gift for decorating, and a way of making every space feel warm and welcoming. But perhaps most of all, she cherished the companionship of her dogs—her beloved boxers—especially her devoted friend “Cooper,” who rarely left her side.

Karen's greatest pride was her family. She leaves behind her brothers, Barry (Susan) Sharp of Solon, Mark (Bonnie) Sharp of Blue Grass, Jay (Cindy) Sharp of Bettendorf, Rick (Michelle) Sharp of Muscatine, and Tim Sharp of Bettendorf, along with many beloved, nieces, nephews and wonderful friends.

She is now reunited with Wayne, the love of her life, and her parents, who surely welcomed her home with open arms.

Karen’s warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

To share memories or offer condolences, please visit www.McGinnis-Chambers.com.