Karen Sue McAlister Johnson of Beckley, West Virginia, passed away on July 21, 2024 at Bower's Hospice House from a long illness. She was 74 years old.

She was born in Huntington, West Virginia on May 21, 1950. She graduated from Milton High School and attended Concord College.

She was the only daughter of the late Grey and Mary (Houck) McAlister. Karen was also proceeded in death by her husband, Kenneth Johnson.

Those left to cherish her memory, her son, Beau Johnson (Carolyn Buzbee), her daughter, Kerri Ann Austin (Billy), a granddaughter, Zoie Austin who was the light of her life. Karen was a wonderful Grammy. Her cousins, John Daniel Houck (Dee Dee), Beth Jarrell (Richard), Amy Dempsey (Randy), David Houck (Jessica), and many second cousins. Her sister-in-law Barbara Belcher, brother-in-law Charles Johnson (Terry Peters), and the late Sue Hicks Richmond. She had many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Karen was a dance teacher and owner of Centre Stage. She loved dancing, laughing, swimming, and playing her guitar. Most important, she loved spending time with her family and friends. She was a Sunday School teacher, church camp counselor, and sang on The Living Christmas Tree. Karen will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

A Celebration and Remembrance of Karen's Life will take place Saturday, August 3, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at 161 Phil Avenue, Beckley, West Virginia.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Melton Mortuary and Cremation Center. Expressions of comfort and condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.meltonmortuary.com