Karen R. Yazell, 83 of Taylorville, passed away on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.  She was born on May 14, 1942, in Du Quoin, the daughter of Raymond and Verda (Quillman) Reynolds.  She married Robert F. “Bob” Yazell on April 22, 1963, in Du Quoin, and he preceded her in death on January 5, 2001.  Karen was a homemaker and previously worked for the Breeze Courier.  She enjoyed going to the Christian County Senior Citizens Center and playing Bingo.  She was talented at quilting, cross stitching, knitting, and crocheting.  Karen was known for her talent for ironing clothing, which she did for many area residents.  She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. More than anything she loved her family, especially being a devoted grandmother.

She is survived by her daughters: Beth Abshire, Melissa Thomas (Brad), and Suzanne Yazell, all of Taylorville; grandchildren: Gerahd Emery, Holly Woods, Amber Woods, Meredith Thomas, Jacob Thomas, Adam Passoni, and Ben Passoni; and great grandchildren: Atlas Passoni, Clover Ryan, and Matti Martir.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sister: Diane Deal; nephew: Tony Deal; and son-in-law: John Abshire.

 A funeral mass for Karen will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 27, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville with Fr. John Burnette officiating.  The visitation will take place one hour prior to the mass and burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the Christian County Senior Citizens Center.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.