Karen Mae Luther, a devoted Christian, beloved Mother, and cherished Nana went home to be with her Lord
and Savior on November 27, 2025. She was 77 years old.

Born on May 30, 1948, to Harvey and Jeanette (Sjoberg) Knecht in Chicago, Illinois, Karen lived a life marked by kindness and steadfast faith. A woman whose heart was shaped by Scripture, Karen embodied the words of 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” Her gifts were many— baking for others, personalized gifts, a warm smile— she poured them joyfully into the lives of all who knew her.

Karen’s greatest earthly joy was her family. She married Robert “Bob” Luther on August 16, 1969. She was the proud mother of three sons, whom she loved deeply and supported unconditionally. As her family grew, she welcomed her daughters-in-law and grandchildren with warmth and devotion. Her family will forever remember her unwavering prayers along with elaborate meals, beautiful tablescapes, and her overall presence.

Rob and Rhonda Luther with children Alexandria (and Mark) Gant and Noah Luther. Bryan and Jayme Luther with Sydney Fornero and Matt (and fiancé Devon) Fornero Michael and Heather Luther with Colton, Ashton and Preston Luther.

Karen stayed busy with the boys while also participating in PEO, Christian Women’s club, Junior Welfare, Ronald McDonald House, and volunteering at St. Mary’s gift shop or other places any chance she had. Karen was a member of Marion Hills Bible Church until she and Bob moved their family to Decatur where she became a member of Riverside Baptist Church in 1978. At Riverside, she was a part of the women’s bible study, kitchen committee, nursery, Sunday School, as well as the AWANA program. Though she will be profoundly missed, her influence is evident within RBC and the many lives she touched. Outside of the home, Karen made an impact while working at Bergners, as a partner to Bob as owner / operators of McDonalds and as a realtor.

Karen was intimately involved with extended family, her sisters Peggy (Don) and Linda as well as dear cousins.

She was preceded in death by her mom and dad, husband Bob, brother Jim.

“Well done, good and faithful servant” is what she heard as she entered heaven on Thanksgiving Day.

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held at Riverside Baptist Church on January 17, 2026 at 11 AM. The family would like to thank Dr. Wade, Dr. Velasco, Sarah Mackey, NP and the staff of Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois for their care of Karen. Memorials can be made to Riverside Baptist Church (1250 W Mound Road, Decatur, IL 62526) or Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois Foundation to assist patients with non-medical needs (210 W McKinley Ave, Decatur, IL 62526) or Ronald McDonald House (610 N 7 th Street, Springfield, IL 62702).