Karen B. Gee

It is with deep sadness and profound love that we announce the passing of Karen B. Gee, a beloved sister, aunt, and friend, who departed this world on March 28, 2026. Karen peacefully transitioned at home in Columbia, South Carolina, under the tender care of her twin sister, Karla Mackey, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and unwavering spirit. Born on November 19, 1952, in Columbia, South Carolina, to Charles H. and Eileen Woelber Brown, Karen was a beacon of light and warmth to all who knew her. Her life was a testament to the values of hard work, compassion, and adventure. Karen was predeceased by her loving husband, Alexander "Sandy" N. Gee, with whom she shared many cherished years, and by her parents, whose guidance helped shape her into the remarkable woman she became. Karen's professional journey was marked by her entrepreneurial spirit and tenacity. She was a pioneering force in the real estate sector, where her talents for purchasing, revitalizing, and selling properties brought new life to many communities. Her acumen extended beyond real estate; as a self-taught investor and accomplished stock trader, Karen navigated the complexities of the financial world with admirable skill and success. In her personal life, Karen found joy in the simple and profound. An avid knitting enthusiast, she devoted countless hours to crafting chemo caps for patients undergoing chemotherapy, offering comfort and warmth to those in need. Her love for adventure was perhaps best exemplified by her passion for motorcycling. Karen fulfilled a lifelong dream by traversing the iconic Route 66 on a Harley Davidson, a memory that she often recounted with a twinkle in her eye. Karen's compassion extended to all living creatures, but she held a special place in her heart for animals, particularly cats. Her advocacy for animal welfare was a testament to her nurturing spirit and her belief in the dignity of all beings. Karen is survived by her devoted twin sister, Karla Mackey, who was by her side until the end. She also leaves behind her siblings, Cynthia Kanaley of Mt. Airy, NC, Mary Anderson (Jim) of Stroudsburg, PA, and Matthew Voght (Nancy) of Sacramento, CA, as well as her stepmother, Joan Brown of Kernersville, NC. Her family will forever cherish the memories, laughter, and love she bestowed upon them. As we bid farewell to Karen, we remember her as a vibrant soul whose life was a beautiful tapestry of love, adventure, and generosity. Her spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. A celebration of Karen's life will be held at a later date, where those who loved her will gather to honor her memory and the indelible mark she left on this world. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Karen’s name to a local animal shelter or cancer research organization, causes that were close to her heart. Rest in peace, dear Karen, knowing you have left the world a better place through your grace and kindness.