Karen Louise (Halbert) Lee

Karen Louise Lee, nee Halbert, of House Springs, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at the age of 64 years, 6 months and 27 days. She was born October 31, 1961 in St. Louis to Welbon “Babe” Halbert and Naomi Ruth Baker Halbert.

Karen grew up in the St. Louis area, but always going back to the family farm at Cherryville for visits. She graduated from Southwest High School in 1980 and later graduating from Southeast Missouri State University in 1984, majoring in social work and where she was a member of the National Service Fraternity of Alpha Phi Omega.

She was employed with a non-profit residential care center, NextStep for Life, for several years and working with the mentally handicapped where she enjoyed helping others. During her time at home, she enjoyed cross-stitching and cooking, such as Creole dishes and desserts, which her family loved. She also enjoyed shopping.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Welbon and Naomi Halbert; and sister, Linda Seiler.

She is survived by a son, Patrick (fiancé Sophia Carson) Oglesby, Jr. of House Springs, MO; companion of several years, Patrick Oglesby, Sr. of House Springs, MO; one brother, Gary (Athena) Halbert of Villa Ridge, MO; special cat “Bandit”; other relatives; and friends.

The Family received friends from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at the Britton-Bennett Funeral Home in Steelville, MO.

A Celebration of Life was held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 7, 2026 with Rev. Bob Coleman officiating at the Britton-Bennett Funeral Home. Special music of "Amazing Grace" and a Medley of Songs were sung by Bob and Carol Coleman. 

A Private Family Inurnment will be held at New Dillard Cemetery in Dillard, MO.

The Lee Family was served by the Britton-Bennett Funeral Home in Steelville, MO.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be given to the American Diabetes Association, 425 S. Woods Mill Road, Suite 110, Town and Country, MO  63017

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