Karen Sue Peppard

Karen Sue Peppard, 85, of Bucyrus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026. Born on March 7, 1941, in Bucyrus, Karen spent her entire life in the community she loved—building a life centered around family, hard work, stubborn determination, and never being afraid to say exactly what was on her mind.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Evelyn and Ray Schwarzkopf, and her beloved son, Todd A. Peppard. She leaves behind her son, Matt Peppard, along with a large, loving family who will continue sharing her stories for years to come—whether they want to or not.

She is also survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Marsha and Tom Gathright; nieces Leanne (Jeremy) Grau and Karen Grau; and great-niece Jessica (Ryan) Thomlin.

Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the center of her world and her proudest accomplishment: Amy Brown and her children Parker (20) and Anabelle (14); Austin (Kourtney) Peppard and their children Lacey (11), Paisley (10), Tristan (8), Owen (7), Stella (7), and Liam (4); Alex (Jennie) Peppard and their children Otto (4) and Nelly (4); and Harlee (Keegan) Peppard and their children Regan (6) and Severide (2).

Karen dedicated 15 years of service to Bucyrus Community Hospital, where she was known for her strong work ethic, reliability, and caring nature. Outside of work, she found joy in gardening, spending countless hours tending to flowers and plants that seemed to thrive under her watchful eye. She also had a lifelong love for animals and adored her loyal furry companions, Whiskey and Spice, who were never far from her side.

Karen was truly one of a kind. She somehow knew a little about everything, had an opinion on most things, and rarely kept either to herself. She could be quick-witted, feisty, funny, and fiercely loving—sometimes all in the same conversation. If you left her house hungry, uninformed, or without hearing at least one brutally honest comment, you probably hadn’t stayed long enough.

She leaves behind dear friends who meant so much to her throughout the years, including Neal Rumler, Vicki Green, and Pam Hayslip, with whom she shared countless laughs, stories, and unforgettable memories.

Karen lived life on her own terms. She loved deeply, worked hard, spoke honestly, and never pretended to be anything other than herself. While her family’s hearts are heavy in her absence, they find comfort knowing her spirit will live on in every family gathering, every blooming flower bed, every stubborn opinion voiced at the kitchen table, and every story retold with laughter.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and impossible to forget.