Karen Lee Tefelski

Karen Lee Tefelski, 66, of Ashland, passed away in her sleep on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. She was preceded in death by her mother, Alice Marie Crooks (Tefelski/Christian), and her father Arthur Tefelski. She is survived by her sister, Linda Tefelski, brothers, David Tefelski (Shelly) and Jeff Turman (Kimberly), cousin Sharon Tefelske (Jeff), niece Elisse Sanabria (Ricardo, Emiliano, Noelia), and nephew Christopher Turman, all of whom she loved dearly.

 

Karen is also survived by countless friends, including her closest friend, Gina Koke, who joined Karen on her journey through a cancer diagnosis, treatments, hopes, disappointments, and finally, acceptance. Gina stood by her side through each step, offering unwavering support and love, and was with her when she passed peacefully at the BonSecours Hospice Home in Bon Air. 

 

With a radiant smile, a generous heart, and a fierce dedication to advocacy, Karen touched countless lives. Born in Hawaii on a military base, Karen’s journey took her across the world—from her formative years in Japan and her young adult life in California to her extensive professional career in Washington DC and Virginia. She graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice from California State University, Sacramento in 1983, beginning a lifelong mission to uplift those in need.

 

Karen’s career reflected her deep commitment to making the world a better place. In California, she joined the Children’s Defense Fund Board, working alongside Hilary Clinton to promote children’s welfare. At the Red Cross, where Elizabeth Dole was president, she played a role in expanding donor support and traveled with Dole to cultivate key contributions for the organization.

 

After moving to Virginia, Karen was diagnosed with breast cancer. She fought her way to recovery and was proud to call herself a survivor for over 20 years. In spite of her health issues, Karen’s impact grew as she became a leader in advocating for the disability community. As Executive Director of the Virginia Association of Community Rehabilitation Programs (vaACCSES), she championed employment rights and essential services for individuals with disabilities. Under her guidance, vaACCSES secured federal grants to provide benefits counseling and employment training, supporting thousands in achieving independence and dignity. Her influence was pivotal in Virginia’s Medicaid waiver redesign, increasing access to crucial services across the state.

 

Karen is also remembered as a mentor to countless numbers of people during her career. Her wealth of knowledge, generous spirit and desire to advance causes that she cared about provided remarkable opportunities for others who may not have previously considered themselves capable.

 

In her final days, Karen demonstrated the same warmth and resilience that defined her life. Despite knowing her time was limited, she embraced each moment fully. When told she only had days to live, she immediately requested the company of her many friends, colleagues, and loved ones. With them she laughed, cried, drank, and ate her favorite foods, all the while sharing stories of youth, and a far-reaching career that spanned decades, coasts, and causes. Karen knew she was blessed to have the celebratory ending that she did. Someone once said that the best celebration of our lives is the one that happens after we’re gone—but not for Karen. She seized the opportunity to live indefatigably to her last breath, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and boundless courage.

 

We will gather for a memorial service in remembrance of Karen on Thursday, November 21st at 6:30 pm at “Atlas 42”, 4032 Cox Rd, Suite A, Glen Allen, VA 23060. In honor of Karen’s request and vibrant spirit, we will then celebrate her life “Karen style” from 7:30 pm to midnight at the same location, sharing stories, laughter, and memories. Out-of-town guests will find the Hilton Garden Inn within walking distance, at 4050 Cox Rd. 

 

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Karen’s life of service and personal generosity, please consider making a donation to her favorite charity, The Arc of Virginia at thearcofva.org or to the Bon Secours Community Hospice House @ 1133 Old Bon Air Rd. Richmond, VA 23235. https://communityhospicehouse.com/support/

 

Special thanks to Richmond Coach and Cremation Services for their excellent supports and services.