Karen Lee Cooper

July 13, 1943 – June 15, 2026

Karen Lee Cooper, 82, of Orange County, California, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2026, surrounded by her daughters, Kelly and Kristi.

Born July 13, 1943, to Charles "Bud" and Lorene Mussell, Karen was raised in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. Karen lit up every room she entered, a devoted Mother to Kelly & Kristi, she always provided practical advice and support with an infectious sense of humor.

She was a creative artist at heart, an excellent painter who loved hosting theme parties and building lifelong friendships. She loved deeply and was deeply loved in return.

Karen recently relocated to Santa Barbara to be closer to family, where, true to form, she hosted a party for her new neighbors and had her artwork featured in a local art show — just days before she passed. She had recommitted her faith and devotion to the Lord, which gave her clarity and resolve that never wavered in her final days.

She is survived by her daughters, Kelly Haskell (Greg) and Kristi Cooper (Johnny Ebadi), and her sisters, Dee Anna Cradic and Kimberly Mussell. A celebration of Karen’s life will be announced at a later date.