Karen Jean Dunlap Clary passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026 in Clarksville, Tennessee at the age of 79. Karen was born on June 3, 1947, in Eastland County to her loving parents, the late Rex Allen and Bertha Mae Dunlap. After graduating from Andrews High School, Karen married the one true love of her life, the late Sammy Ray Clary, Sr.

Karen settled in as an oilfield wife and moved with Sam to Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Singapore, and Holland. She had two children and made lifelong friends during these years. Karen and Sam moved to Milam in 2001 where they enjoyed living in the country until Sam’s untimely passing in 2005.

Karen was a beloved mother to her daughter, Julie Rohaly of Clarksville, Tennessee and her son & daughter-in-love, Sammy and Margaret Clary of Conroe. She was the proud grandmother of Dallas, Beckie, Meagan, Sarah and Laurel and great grandmother to Marley, Rowen, Mox, Ridge, Wyatt, Hayes, Mack and Palmer, all of whom survive her. She is also survived by her sister Kathy Fagan of Brownwood and numerous special nieces, nephews, cousins, family members and friends. Karen was preceded in death by her brother Walter 'Dinky' Hill, and her brother and sister-in-law Frances and Roy Dowden.

Karen had a deep and abiding love for her family and friends and they were the center of her world. She also loved animals and had many cherished pets throughout the years. She enjoyed, cooking, sewing, needlepoint, crafting, gardening, traveling and visiting with family and friends. She loved to laugh and was a treasured mother, wife, sister, aunt, grandmother & great grandmother (Mama Karen), friend and community and church member. She will truly be missed by all who knew and loved her. Karen endured some unnecessary trials and tribulations in her lifetime, but her sweet disposition and Christian faith saw her through. We can rejoice now that her pain and suffering is over, as we know she has been reunited with her loved ones and she is in the presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Karen was cremated in Clarksville, Tennessee and her ashes will be buried beside her beloved late husband Sam at New Hope Cemetery in Milam, Texas. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at New Hope Cemetery, 200 New Hope Drive, Milam, Texas, with Brandon Fagan officiating. [ 31.49765, -93.84715 GPS ] A reception for family and friends will be held immediately following the ceremony at Holly Park Marina 3000 East Carters Ferry Road-Milam, TX 75959.