Karen Sue (Anderson) Steed of Tulsa (formerly of Heavener) was born Feb. 13, 1947 in Heavener to Ralph and Reba Doris (Upchurch) Anderson and passed away on Sept. 4, 2026 in Sperry at the age of 79.
Funeral service is 10 a.m., Thursday at the Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Heavener, with Reverend Ricky Huggins officiating. Burial will follow in the Heavener Memorial Park, under the direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener.
Karen was born and raised in Heavener. She enjoyed a brief chapter in Lake Charles, Louisiana, during her father’s career with the railroad before returning home. A proud graduate of Heavener High School in 1965, Karen continued her education at Oklahoma State University, where she was an active member of the Alpha Chi Sorority where she earned her Bachelor’s degree. She went on to earn a Master’s Degree in social work from LSU.
On Feb. 14, 1973, Karen married Richard Steed, and together they created a nurturing home in Heavener, where they raised their two cherished children, Susan and Ryan, both born in March of their respective years, 1975 and 1977.
Karen dedicated her professional life to the State of Oklahoma, beginning her journey as a Social Worker at Carl Albert Mental Health in Heavener and culminating in her role as the Superintendent of the State Mental Hospital in Vinita. Notably, she was the first non-PhD to lead the institution, a distinction she held with great pride. Her career also included a significant tenure as the Director of the Mental Health floor at St. John’s in Bartlesville, where she retired in 2013.
An avid reader, Karen was rarely seen without a book or Kindle in hand. She had a passion for travel, always dreaming of exploring the world in her retirement, and she cherished the friendships she cultivated throughout her life, from childhood companions to her beloved sorority sisters.
A devoted Oklahoma State fan, Karen rarely missed a football game and found joy in watching sports, “Jeopardy!”, the news, and classic detective shows. She loved playing cards, particularly with her bridge group in Heavener, and enjoyed snow and water skiing adventures during family trips to Colorado and Wister Lake. Her cherished Yorkie, Gus, brought her joy for 18 years.
Karen took immense pride in her grandchildren, often sharing stories about them with anyone who would listen. Known for her intelligence and determination, once she set her mind to a goal, she achieved it with unwavering focus. Her loyalty to friends and family was unmatched, and her memory will be lovingly cherished by all who knew her.
Survivors are one daughter Susan Savoy and husband Brandon of Owasso; one son, Ryan Steed, of Tulsa; three grandchildren Payton Steed, Jackson Savoy and Elyse Savoy; one sister-in-law, Pat Anderson, of Heavener; two nephews Daniel Anderson and Michael Anderson, both of Heavener; numerous other loved ones and friends.
Karen is preceded in death by her parents Ralph and Reba Doris Anderson; and a brother, Carl Anderson.
Pallbearers are her family.
Viewing is from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. Wednesday. The family will visit with the friends from 6 until 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
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