Karen Sue Kesterson, age 73, of Benton, passed away Sunday, July 20, 2025.  She was born June 1, 1952 in DeQueen, Arkansas.  Karen retired as a school teacher from the Pulaski County Special School District after 33 years.

She is preceded in death by her parents, David & Lyda Young Conatser and a sister, Robin Simmons.

Karen is survived by her husband of 47 years, JR Kesterson; daughter, Jessica Rose Evans and husband Jacob Richard Evans; brother, David Conatser (Charla); brother-in-law, Ron Kesterson (Renee); the twins, Chandler & Victoria Scott; and nieces, nephews, & friends.

Visitation will be 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Thursday, July 24 at Ashby Funeral Home with a Celebration of Her Life beginning at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Saline County Humane Society @ 7600 Bauxite Hwy in Bauxite, Ar.  72011 or www.hssaline.org/donate.