Karen Pursley Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Karen Pursley of Raleigh, North Carolina, who passed away on March 8, 2026, at the age of 70, leaving to mourn family and friends. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family.
As we bid farewell to this cherished soul, solace is taken in the memories held dear — the laughter shared, the wisdom imparted, the moments of quiet reflection in their presence. Though Karen may no longer walk among us, her spirit lives on in the echoes of her kindness, the warmth of her embrace, and the light of her enduring love.
She was predeceased by: her parents, Tolbert W. Nelson and Anne Stinnett Nelson. She is survived by: her husband Walter; her siblings, Sheila McJilton (Pat Hendrickson) of Laurel, MD and Kyle Nelson (late David Ralston) of Atlanta, GA; her sister-in-law Angela Smail (Tom) of Annapolis, MD.; her nephews, Woody McJilton of Salisbury, MD, Paul Smail (Maggie) of Baltimore and Thomas Smail (Haelim) of Crofton, MD; her great-nephew Owen; and her great-niece Ella.
Memorial contributions may be made to any of the following: The Church of the Good Shepherd, 121 Hillsborough St., Raleigh 27603; Food Bank of Central & Eastern NC; St. Jude Children's Hospital.
