Karen Elizabeth Downen

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Karen Elizabeth Downen, a beloved wife, devoted mother, proud grandmother and compassionate healthcare professional. Karen, who was born on October 31, 1944, in Vincennes, Indiana the daughter of James and Aletha (VanVleet) Hooks. She transitioned peacefully from this life on October 12, 2025, at the age of 80. She departed this world with the love of her family in her heart, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication.

A proud graduate of Vincennes Lincoln High School and Vincennes University, Karen dedicated her life to serving others. As a passionate nurse of over fifty years, she served as the Hospice Director at Good Samaritan Hospital, where she touched countless lives with her unwavering compassion and care. Her commitment to helping others extended beyond her profession; she was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church for over twenty years, actively participating in the Stephen Ministry, providing comfort and guidance to those in need.

Karen cherished her time with her family and made beautiful memories with her husband, children and grandchildren. Karen and Vic always looked forward to family get togethers, sporting events and times at the Knox County Fair with their son Brian and his family. She found great joy in traveling with her husband Vic on weekend trips and their many visits to see their daughter Vicki and her family in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. Karen loved the sun and sand and made treasured memories with Vicki on their cruises to the Bahamas. Her friends and church family were very important to her, as she spent countless times enjoying their faith and fellowship. Karen was so blessed to have such a loving and compassionate caregiver, Crystal Atkinson, in her life for the past several years.

Those who knew Karen, will remember her warm smile, gentle spirit, and the love she shared with her family, friends and her church family.

Karen is survived by her husband Victor Downen of Vincennes; her beloved daughter, Vicki Hicks and her husband Ron of Staunton, VA; brother, Doug Hooks and his wife Kathy of Vincennes; grandchildren, Peyton Hicks, Carver Hicks, Kristen Jones, Jeremy Hollis and J.D. Hollis. Karen is preceded in death by her parents, James and Aletha Hooks, her stillborn infant child, her son, Brian Downen, her granddaughter, Samantha Harmon and her grandson, Sam Downen.

Friends may visit with Karen's family from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home. A graveside service to celebrate Karen's life will follow the visitation at 1:30 pm at Memorial Park Cemetery. Online memories may be shared with Karen's family at goodwinsieversfh.com. Goodwin- Sievers Funeral Home is privileged and honored to be entrusted with the care of Karen and her family. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church or the American Cancer Society.