Marion Karam

Marion Estelle Karam, 77, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026.  She was born in Glascow, Kentucky on March 3, 1949. Her father Morris, shortly after returning from World War II a hero, divorced Marion’s mother Estelle Lay leaving Marion and her sisters estranged.

Marion worked hard at home to help support the family and helped raise her beloved nieces and nephew while her mother worked in a factory trying to make ends meet. Throughout her life, Marion demonstrated fierce loyalty, love and deep commitment to family and close friends. Marion faced adversity early in life, and with courage and the Lords strength she persevered.  She instilled these values in her children.

Always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need, her kindness and compassion knew no bounds. Touching the lives of many, she worked as a caretaker for elderly patients and was known lovingly as a home cook for them, preparing their favorite meals.

Marion had an unwavering devotion to the Lord Jesus Christ and to her family.  She and her husband Charly Karam were faithfully married for 54 years, devoted to each other unconditionally.  Her loyalty extended to her mother, Estelle Lay, whom she looked up to for teaching her hard work and commitment to family and the Lord Jesus Christ.  Marion welcomed her into her home without hesitation and took care of her in illness until her passing.

Marion enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, finding peace and strength singing along to her favorite hymns, like Amazing Grace and How Great Thou Are. She gave generously to others and shared joy through her delectable cooking. Everyone gathered at our house for her famous lasagna, tabouli and strawberry cassata cake. Her culinary talents were a source of joy for her and all those around. As a newlywed in Cleveland, Marion sought time with her in-laws learning how to cook Lebanese food of her husband’s culture.

Marion was preceded in death by her brother-in-law Bill Carrender, her beloved husband Charly Karam and her cherished mother Lena Estelle Compton Lay.

Marion leaves behind her three loving children, Eric “Todd” (Joann) Karam of Cleveland, Ohio, Anthony “Tony” (Kayla) Karam of Lexington, Kentucky, Stephen Karam (Sarah Moon) of Lexington, Kentucky, her grandchildren Courtney Karam Call, Alexander Karam, Millie Karam, Camryn Karam, and Paige Karam, and a great grandchild Rowen Call, and surviving sisters Charlotte Carrender of Dayton, Ohio, and Becky (Tommy) Webber of Lexington, Kentucky. She will be remembered by nieces, nephews and many extended family members and close friends.

The funeral service will be Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Stith Funeral Home, Danville, KY with Reverend Scott Smith officiating.  Visitation will be From 12 PM to 1 PM prior to the service. The burial will follow in Bellevue Cemetery in Danville, Kentucky.