Karen Elisabeth Hammond

Karen Elisabeth Hammond, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She was 69 years old.

Born on June 5, 1956, in Sonora, California, Karen grew up in Hughson, CA, where she began her lifelong journey of working hard, loving deeply, and living fully. She brought warmth, humor, and compassion to every chapter of her life, touching countless people along the way.

Karen is survived by her children, Kristen Prater (Vince) and Kevin Hammond; her cherished granddaughter, Sophia; her siblings, Scott and Penny; her beloved dog, Jackson; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved her deeply. She is preceded in death by her brother Kurt, grandmother Dorothy Pitau, uncle Mike Linn, and her parents, Gary and Patricia Stegall.

A true “Jackie of all trades,” Karen had a rich and varied work life that reflected her incredible adaptability and grit. She worked for the county assessor’s office, S&W Fine Foods, and even operated a Christmas tree lot for several years. Most notably, she owned and operated a successful catering business for over 20 years, known not just for her amazing food but for the heart and hustle she put into every single event.

Karen was full of life—funny, kind, and fiercely generous. She made friends everywhere she went and was always willing to go without if it meant someone else would be okay. She was a passionate fan of the San Francisco Giants and Golden State Warriors, and in her later years, found joy and peace in crafting, especially diamond art.

She had a gift for making life feel special. Every holiday she touched became magical, and even the most ordinary days were made memorable by her presence.

Karen’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and quiet strength. Her memory will live on in the lives of all those she loved and who loved her in return.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her memory to St. Luke’s Cancer Institute in Twin Falls or the American Cancer Society. The family wishes to thank the countless members of the healthcare community who helped her along the way and treated her more like a friend than a patient.

Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 am, Friday, October 24, 2025, at Farnsworth Mortuary, 1343 South Lincoln Ave., Jerome.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on Karen’s memorial webpage at www.farnsworthmortuary.com.