Karen Dykes Obituary

Karen Dykes

August 30, 2025

JOHNSON CITY - Karen Dykes, age 82, of Johnson City, Tennessee, passed away Saturday, August 30, 2025, at her residence. Karen was born in Carter County to the late Benjamin Hinkle and Virginia West Hinkle.

Karen Dykes, a devoted member of the Methodist faith, was a proud graduate of Happy Valley High School Class of 1960. She carried with her the values of kindness and dedication throughout her life, finding joy in the simple pleasures of tending to her yard, where she nurtured both flowers and friendships. Karen had a deep and abiding love for animals, with a special fondness for cats, who brought her comfort and companionship. Her gentle spirit and caring nature left a lasting impression on all who knew her, reflecting a life well-lived in faith, love and compassion.

Those left to cherish Karen's memory include her sons, Jeffrey Dykes (Valarie) and David Dykes, both of Johnson City; grandchildren, Garrett Dykes (Heather,) of Jonesboro and Vanessa Toth (Peyton,) of Johnson City; great grandchildren, Addisyn Dykes and Austin Dykes; special friend whom she loved like a daughter, Elizabeth Bunton Smith; several nieces and nephews also survive.

A service to celebrate the life of Karen will be conducted at 1:00 PM on Thursday, September 4, 2025, in the Chapel of Peace at Tetrick Funeral Home – Elizabethton with Mr. Billy Murphy, Minister officiating. The family will receive friends between the hours of 12:00PM and 1:00PM In the funeral home chapel, prior to the service on Thursday.

The committal service and interment will be conducted at Happy Valley Memorial Park following the funeral service on Thursday. Active Pallbearers will be Jeff Dykes, David Dykes, Garrett Dykes, Jess Garland, T.J. Garland and Danny Jones.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation to the caregivers at Amedisys Hospice and Kathy Bailey for the loving care given to Ms. Dykes during this difficult time.

Those who prefer memorial in lieu of flowers may make donations to the Carter County Animal Shelter in honor of Karen.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family by visiting our website at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home of Elizabethton is honored to serve the Dykes family. Office phone: (423) 542-2232.