Karen Ruth Arrington

Karen Ruth Arrington, age 64, of Walden Road, Sandersville, passed away unexpectedly at her residence on Sunday, July 20, 2025.  A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held on Thursday, July 24, at 2:00 p.m. in the Sandersville Methodist Church, with burial at Josey Baptist Church on Heards Bridge Road.  Elder Kenneth Brantley, Reverend Jared Middleton, and Reverend Mike Jones will officiate.   Pallbearers will be Benjie Joiner, Richie Coulter, Randy Smith, Donnie Smith, Don Smith, and Garon Smith.  Karen's family will receive friends on Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at May and Smith Funeral in Sandersville.

Karen was born in Louisville, the daughter of the late Julian Albert "Doc" Arrington and the late Ruth Anne Smith.   She was reared on Arrington Road and graduated from Thomas Jefferson Academy in Louisville.  Karen's dedication to her career was unwavering.  She graduated from cosmetology school in Dublin and began a 42-year career as a master cosmetologist.  Her career began at Cuts and Curls and Ideal Beauty Shop, all before she created the Hair Palace in 1983, which she owned and operated until 2012.  Karen then transitioned to her current shop, Shear Perfection. As a perfectionist in her work, she went above and beyond for her clients. Her long-time customers became more than just clients; they evolved into dear friends who shared both joys and struggles together. Her work environment was a place of joy, friendship, and inspiration. She dedicated her time to asking about her clients' families, ensuring that they left feeling uplifted and beautiful. These lasting friendships not only enriched her life but also the lives of those she served.  Karen's favorite pastimes were her flowers, shopping and traveling to the beach.  She was known to be a food critic and was the best margarita maker in town.   Karen's pride in her two children was unmatched and her grandchildren were without a doubt the cherished "apple of her eye".

Survivors include her life partner, Jim McNair; children Rick Jackson and his wife Destiny and Danielle Cowart all of Sandersville; grandchildren Cole Jackson, Logan Jackson, Z.J. Scott, Connor Cowart, and Hampton Rountree; her brother Doug Arrington of Bartow, a special friend and co-worker, Jordan Coulter; her fur baby Roxy Grace and many beloved cousins.

Donation in Karen's memory may be made to Angels in Flight at angelsinflight13.org 2041 West Elm Street, Wrightsville, GA. 31096 or to the Alzheimer's Association at donorservices.alz.org.

Please leave an online condolence at mayandsmithfuneraldirectors.org

May and Smith Funeral Directors is in charge of these arrangements.