Karen Renee Hodge
1965 - 2026
Karen Renee Hodge, 61 years young, of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, completed her earthly journey on September 18, 2026. Karen passed peacefully at Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home, surrounded by those she loved, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Karen was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to Charles and Shirley Paris on July 30, 1965. She found joy in the simple and beautiful things in life—shopping, coloring and drawing, attending church, traveling to the mountains, and, most of all, spending time with her family and friends.
Karen often said that her son and daughter were the light of the sun in her day, and her grandchildren were the stars in her night sky.
Her love for her family was evident in the way she cherished every moment with them.
Despite the long and difficult battle she faced with cancer, Karen never lost her faith. She remained joyful and steadfast in her hope, always desiring to be a light for Christ and to share His love with those around her.
Those already in heaven to welcome Karen were her mother, Shirley Paris, and her sister, Lisa Barbee.
She leaves behind to cherish her memory her son, Brandon Gray; her daughter, Kimberly Matthews; her son-in-law, Christopher Matthews; and her two precious grandchildren, Brayden and Hannah Matthews. She is also survived by her father, Charles Paris; her brother, Randy Paris; and Robert Gray, who, although no longer her husband, remained an important and deeply cherished part of Karen’s life.
A celebration of Karen’s life will be held Saturday, October 3, 2026 at 4:00pm at Hillcrest Baptist Church. The address is 4580 S. Main St., Winston-Salem, NC 27127.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Cancer Services Inc., 3175 Maplewood Avenue, Winston-Salem, NC 27103.
Karen was like a sister to us we grew up together Don my brother was here brother-in-law. I will miss her our messager chats sending prayers to the family 🫂🙏
Karen was my best friend growing up up and we did Everything together. She has always been very close to our family. We love her and miss her.
Sending love and hugs to her family. She was a kind and beautiful soul.
Karen, I will forever miss u. And enjoy playing Farmville with u on line. We became long distance friends, wishing one day I could have met u in person. Rest At Ease my friend.
Karen, you were always such a bright light when you came to work. I will always remember that beautiful smile of yours that happy spirit and your long pretty hair. I will cherish all the memories that we spent together at work. I miss you dearly. May you rest in peace angel love you always, Tara
It was my pleasure to have known Karen. I checked her in for many of her appointments, and she was alway so very kind. She never complained. I will be praying for you all in the days to come.