Karen Sue Wilkins, 81, of Ottumwa, died at 5:04 a.m. December 10, 2023 at MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center.

She was born March 12, 1942 in Milan, MO to Marion and Maxine Johnson Jackson. She married Voris Keith Wilkins Sr. June 21, 1959.

A 1959 graduate of Ottumwa High School, Karen was an operator for Answer Plus for 35 years, retiring in 2022.

Karen enjoyed crafting and spending time with family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Surviving is her husband, Keith; their children, Malynda (Kevin) Payne of Bloomfield, V. Keith (Linda) Wilkins Jr. of Ottumwa and Kelly (Robyn) Wilkins of Ottumwa; 15 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and brother, Bob (Deb) Jackson of Cypress, TX.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Nancy Kelly; granddaughter, Stacey Johnston; and her mother-in-law and father-in-law, George and Delores Wilkins.

Her body has been cremated. No services are planned at this time.

Reece Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.