Karen Ann Sprouse

Karen Sprouse, age 69 of Alcoa, passed away quietly Friday morning, January 6 with her beloved children by her side.  She is preceded in death by her husband Steve Sprouse and parents Keith and Betty Hord.  She is survived by her children Laura Brawner (Brandon); Ryan Acuff (Alicia); granddaughters Adeline Acuff and Skylar Brawner; grandson Reed Acuff;  sister Linda Logan; and Uncle Alvin Hord.  Karen retired from the University of Tennessee after more than 30 years of service in numerous positions.  She had a passion for flower gardening that she inherited from her mother and grandmothers. She was also a doting grandmother who loved to spoil Adeline, Skylar and Reed despite the protests of their parents.   They were the light of her life who kept her busy and amused with their antics.  Karen gave of herself to anyone who needed help especially through food and other acts of kindness. She could always be found immaculately dressed whether mowing the lawn or heading off to church.  She was a rock to her children and will be sorely missed by all who knew her for her nurturing nature. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 from 6:00 until 8:00 pm in the Smith Trinity Chapel.  Family and friends will assemble at 10:00 am on Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at the Grandview Mausoleum Chapel for a celebration of Karen’s life and entombment with Pastor Chris Carpenter officiating.  Memorial donations may be made in Karen’s name to the Blount County Rescue Squad, 300 E Lincoln Rd, Alcoa, TN 37701.  Condolences may be shared through Smith funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com