Karen E. Long

Karen Elizabeth Long, of Shawnee, Kansas, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026, at the age of 66. Born on September 24, 1959, in Kansas City, Missouri, she was the beloved daughter of Dwight Robert Fitts Jr. (“Bob”) and Joyce Bartels Fitts. Karen was a lifelong learner whose ambition and curiosity never faded. She earned multiple associate degrees throughout her life, always striving to expand her knowledge and better herself. Her dedication and strong work ethic carried into a successful career as a Construction Manager. She was deeply respected and appreciated by her colleagues for her professionalism, leadership, and unwavering commitment. Above all else, Karen’s greatest accomplishment was the love she shared with those around her. She was the proud and devoted mother of two daughters, Kassie and Jessica Long, who were the center of her world. She was also an adoring grandmother to Adriana Long, with whom she shared an extraordinary bond. Karen had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved, welcoming all with open arms. She encouraged everyone to pursue their dreams and celebrate life’s joys. Karen found so much joy in the beauty of the natural world. She loved the ocean, camping beneath the stars, tending her garden, and simply being outdoors. She also had a deep love of travel, photography, and live music, cherishing every chance to share those experiences with the people she loved. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Dwight and Joyce Fitts. She is survived by her daughters, Kassie Long and Jessica Long; her beloved granddaughter, Adriana Long; her brothers, Dwight and Brian Fitts; sister-in-law, Angie Fitts; nieces and nephews Ryan, Cara (Tim), Devon, Logan, and Jenny Fitts; her bonus grandchildren, Lila and Waylon Sciolaro, children of Stefi McKinney; and her beloved grand-cat, Roman. Karen’s legacy is one of compassion, strength, adventure, and unconditional love. She embraced life fully, leaving behind countless memories, endless laughter, and a love that will continue to guide those fortunate enough to have known her. Though deeply missed, her beautiful spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Maple Hill Funeral Home, with funeral services immediately following at 6:00 p.m. Karen’s family asks that those who knew and loved her honor her memory by holding loved ones a little closer, taking the spontaneous trip, turning up a favorite song, or spending time in nature—just as Karen would have wanted.

Tributes

Karen E. Long

September 24, 1959 - July 2, 2026