2024ObituariesKaren June Estes

Karen June Estes of Walker, Louisiana, passed away Monday, November 4, 2024 at the age of 72.

Karen was a dedicated Registered Nurse, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother whose warmth shone through her love for family, art, and animals. Her passions included drawing, painting, crafting, and visiting antique and bookstores. She found special joy in her love of horses, sharing treasured memories of her Louisiana childhood in Covington and telling special stories about visiting her grandparents’ farm in Bogalusa. Known for her thoughtful journaling, Karen often wrote poems that conveyed her love and encouragement. Her family will fondly remember her saying, “I love you more than the air I breathe,” a testament to her enduring kindness and devotion.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Miguel and Francis Martinez, and Eddie and Gussie Kirkland; parents, Edward and June Kirkland; and brother Glenn Kirkland.

Karen is survived by her husband of 54 years, Jerry Estes; daughters Michelle Estes (Laurie) of College Station, Texas and Jamie Harmer (Kevin) of Lompoc, California; son Brandon Estes (Janice) of Boise, Idaho; five grandchildren Shelby, Bryce, Taylor, Savannah, and Jaden; three sisters Lynn Bowman, Debora Graves, and Tami Manning; brother Michael Kirkland; and numerous loving nieces and nephews.

We especially want to thank Paula Thomas, Karen’s attentive and loving caregiver, her other daily caretakers, and The Hospice of Baton Rouge.

The family, per Karen’s wishes, will not have visitation or services. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to your local animal shelter or equine rescue center to honor Karen’s love and passion for animals.