Karen Raynell Ingram

Karen Raynell Ingram, 76, of Alma, Illinois passed away on Wednesday, July 5, 2023 at her home in Alma.  

She was born on July 2, 1947, in Salem, Illinois to her loving parents, Raymond M. and Nellie M. (Pilcher) Banning. She married Noel J. Ingram on June 2, 1988, in Omega, Illinois and they shared 26 years of marriage before he preceded her in death on March 24, 2015. Karen's passion for helping others led her to work as a nurse at the Twin Willows Nursing Home in Salem for many years. Her dedication and compassionate care touched the lives of countless residents.

Outside of her nursing career, Karen had a variety of interests and hobbies that brought her joy. She was an avid crocheter and took great pride in creating beautiful pieces with her own hands. In her spare time, she would immerse herself in the pages of a thrilling murder mystery novel. Karen also found excitement in NASCAR racing and was a devoted fan of Dale Jarrett. However, nothing could compare to her unwavering loyalty to the Chicago Cubs. She cheered for them through victories and defeats and celebrated their triumphant moments.

Karen is survived by her children Carlon "Bill" Lewis Jr. of Centralia and Carla Gibson (Tracy Devore) of Shumway. Additionally, she leaves behind two stepsons: Robbie Gabel of Longview, Illinois and Richard Gabel of Urbana, Illinois. Her memory will be cherished by five grandchildren: Jason Lewis of Salem, Colette Cadle of Evansville, Indiana, Tyler Lewis of Salem, Brandy Lewis of Salem, and Trevor Lewis of Salem. Karen also leaves behind twelve adoring great-grandchildren who brought immense joy into her life.

While we mourn Karen's passing, we take solace in knowing that she is now reunited with those who went before her. She was preceded in death by her parents as well as her dear grandson Joshua R. Lewis and sister Emma White.

Funeral services to celebrate Karen's life will be held at 2:30 pm Sunday, July 9, 2023 at the McGriff Funeral Home in Kinmundy. Burial will follow the services at the Evergreen Cemetery, Kinmundy. Visitation will be held on Sunday afternoon at the funeral home where friends may call from 1:30 to 2:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Karen's memory to the American Heart Association. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory of Karen, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.