Karen D. (Williford) Rogers

We are saddened to announce the passing of Karen D. Williford Rogers (AKA “Mimi”), 64 years old, of Mohawk, TN. Karen was born in Alexandrea, VA on March 17, 1961, and passed away December 17, 2025, in her home, with her loving husband Don by her side. She was a beloved teacher known for her kindness. 

Karen graduated from East High School simultaneously earning an associate’s degree in education from WSCC in Morristown, TN. She went on to earn her B.S. from East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, TN.  Later, earning her master’s degree and Ed. S from Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, TN. 

In the beginning of her career from 1989 to 2003, Karen served as a project manager and grant writer for multi-million-dollar projects with Douglas Cherokee.  From 2003 to 2019, she was a seventh-grade teacher at East Ridge Middle School, then a teacher at East High School in Hamblen County. 

Karen served the last six years as the CTE Consultant for the First CORE Office.  During her career, she received many awards and recognitions for her work, not only in Morristown and Mohawk, but across the state.  Karen was always an advocate all for students, especially the underdog, ensuring they had access to equitable opportunities to build a better future.  Her belief in what was possible gave others permission to think bigger than they would have without her. Her impact is immeasurable.

She thoroughly enjoyed crafts, and with that, went into sales for seven years with Thirty-One. During that time, she met many people and developed several lifelong friendships, including Maureen (Mo) Reeves of Greeneville, TN. When she was not working, you could find her making crafts or attending crafting events. 

Karen is a member of Fairview Baptist Church in Mohawk, TN.  She will be remembered for her deep faith in Jesus Christ and the love of her family and friends.  Survivors include her husband of 44 years, Don A. Rogers. One son, Luke Rogers of Mohawk, TN. Her three adored granddaughters, Laycie, Sadie, and Peyton. Her mother Charlotte W. Tolliver of Mohawk. Mother-in-law, Barbara Rogers of Morristown. Two brothers-in-law, Gary (Lisa) Rogers of Whitesburg, Bill (Dawn) Rogers of Morristown. Two loving aunts, Norma Newman and Loretta Carrington, both of Kingston, TN. Julia Lamons of Greeneville, which was her ride or die and support system through her cancer battle. 

Karen is preceded in death by her father Thomas P Williford Sr, and her brothers Thomas P Williford Jr, and John Kelvin Williford, all from Chattanooga, TN. Her grandparents, L.D. McCulley and Mildred McCulley of Rockwood, TN. John, and Kate Etter Williford of Chattanooga. Her father-in-law Billy Don Rogers of Morristown.

The Family will receive friends from 10AM-12PM, Saturday, December 20, 2025, in the East Chapel of Allen Funeral Home.  Funeral Services will follow the visitation with Rev. Kevin Wisecarver officiating.  The family will proceed to Fairview Baptist Church in Mohawk for Graveside services following the Funeral service.  Serving as pallbearers are: Wayne Dyer, Bo Voiles, Ayden Lamons, Adam Tolliver, Gary Rogers, and Bill Rogers.  

In lieu of flowers any donations to Fairview Baptist Church, Mohawk, TN, or Saint Judes Children’s Hospital will be greatly appreciated. 

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