Karen Nelson

Karen Nelson of Florence, South Carolina, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on July 10, 2024. She was the daughter of Carl and Carol Schroeppel and sister to Rick and Rob Schroeppel. It was at Trinity College, where she studied music, that she met her best friend and love of her life, Gary Nelson. Together they had three children: Whitney (husband Bill), KC, and Gunnar (wife Erin). Her greatest joy was being “Millie” to her granddaughter, Zoey. Music played a beautiful melody throughout Karen’s life, and she had a talent for sharing her passion with children. Whether leading the children's choir at church, teaching music at All Saints’ Episcopal Day School, or instructing piano, Karen left her mark on hundreds of students. She delighted in running into her former students and always remembered each one by name. Karen loved people and truly never met a stranger. Her friendships stretched from next door to bible study, the cycling community, and abroad. She had regular reunions with the “6 Pack Teeny Bopper Beach Boys Fan Club” and traveled all over the world with her “Moms In Touch” group. It was common to hear Karen described as a best friend. Above all else, Karen loved the Lord and constantly gave him praise for all the good and wonderful gifts He had blessed her with. Her life was a ministry to love God and love people. She prayed for her loved ones daily and often left notes and scripture of encouragement for others. A celebration of Karen’s life will be held at The Church at Sandhurst, 1140 Third Loop Road, on Wednesday, July 17 at 10:00 AM. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, a cause supported by Karen and her family.