Karen Sue Browning, 70, of Mount Vernon, Illinois, passed away at 8:00 am May 1, 2023 at Mt. Vernon Countryside Manor.

She was born February 20, 1953 in Mount Vernon, Illinois to the late Gail Louis and Helen Elizabeth (Sands) Smith. Karen married Daniel Ralph Browning on October 1, 1976 in Mount Vernon, Illinois. They were blessed with nearly thirty-two years of marriage before he preceded her in death on April 25, 2008.

Karen is survived by her daughters, Tonya Ellis and husband, David of Mount Vernon, Kari Lowery and husband, Steven of Mount Vernon, Crystal Browning of Bluford; grandchildren, Zachary Nash, Zachery Pierce, Ashley Pierce, Danielle Venters, Carver Jay Featherstun, Adia Cutler, and Sevren Peterson; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Karen was preceded in death by sister, Gina Gail Smith and brother, Gary Duane Smith.Karen worked as an RN for many years. She loved hummingbirds and gardening. Karen loved her family especially, her grandchildren.

A Visitation will be held Saturday, May 6, 2023 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Hughey Funeral Home in Mount Vernon, Illinois. A Funeral Service will begin at 7:00 pm with Mr. Mike Sheets officiating. Memorials may be made in Karen’s honor to the American Cancer Society.Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.