Karen Murray Linton

In Loving Memory of Karen Murray Linton

April 29, 1946 – January 6, 2025

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Karen Murray Linton, who left us unexpectedly at the age of 78 on the morning of January 6, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, following complications from an elective hernia surgery.

Born on April 29, 1946, in Joplin, Missouri, to Julia and Jack Murray, Karen lived a full and remarkable life, touching the hearts of all who knew her. Her intelligence, wit, and vivacious spirit were evident from an early age. Karen studied journalism in college, she spent much of her early career as a columnist, writing for two different small-town Texas newspapers. She also contributed to the Remax advertising and marketing committee before transitioning into real estate and property management. Eventually, Karen became the owner of her own property management company and later retired as a commercial real estate inspector.

Karen was deeply committed to her community, serving on several boards and committees. Most recently, she was Chair of both the House Committee and the Marketing/Publications Committee at Senior Estates Golf and Country Club, roles she cherished dearly. She was an active member of the Red hats, and she played cards several times a month with her girlfriends.

Karen was a woman ahead of her time—brilliant, articulate, and fiercely independent. She was an advocate for feminism and equal rights, standing firm in her beliefs and constantly working to make the world a better place. A true matriarch, she was the glue that held generations of her family together, a beacon of strength, love, and wisdom. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend, raising multiple generations, and was known for her caring nature, sense of humor, and incredible resilience.

Karen’s life was rich in passion and purpose. She was a lover of animals, dedicating many years to volunteering at shelters and rescuing countless dogs. Her commitment to compassion extended to all aspects of her life. A true traveler at heart, Karen embraced the joy of exploration and experienced the world to its fullest. She was always impeccably fashionable and carried herself with grace and panache, leaving an impression wherever she went.

Karen is survived by her beloved children: Leslie Elphinstone, Jeffery Cuiper (Leslie), Tara Milam (Robert), Jason Linton (Quihyn); her grandchildren: Jestina Chalker, Jared Chalker, Amber Pitt (Alex), Shannon Milam, Robyn Milam, and Robert Milam II, along with many 13 great-grandchildren, aunts, nephews, and countless friends who considered her family.

Karen’s tremendous legacy is one of love, strength, and inspiration, and she will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers, Karen requested that donations be made in her memory to the charity Ray of Hope.