Karen Judith "Joy" Green

Karen Judith “Joy” Green passed of breast cancer on July 22 in Alamogordo, New Mexico. She was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 8, 1939.

Karen graduated from Yuma High School in Yuma, Arizona, in 1957 and earned a degree in art education from Arizona State University. As an artist she worked in a variety of mediums, but loved painting best. One of her proudest accomplishments in life was raising her two children. 

She was an avid volunteer for churches throughout her life, including Cornerstone Chapel, and also supported the Honor Guard of Alamogordo. She cared tenderly for a menagerie of animals, including dogs, cats, goats and chickens. Her true passion was helping people, particularly along their roads to recovery, and leading them to Christ. She remained active and serving until the very end.

A vibrant person, Karen liked to introduce herself as “I’m a Christian but I still drink beer.” Her legacy lives on in the lives she changed through her generosity and genuine love for others. She was a linchpin of her communities, bringing and bonding people together. Her masterfully crafted marble cakes and no-bake-cookies will be missed. 

Karen is survived by her husband Joseph Green of Alamogordo, New Mexico, her daughter Lia Wolfe and granddaughter Reia Wolfe of Flagstaff, Arizona, and John Kettunen of Yuma, Arizona. She was preceded in death by her husband Ronald Frans and her son William Frans. 

Family and friends will gather to remember her at Cornerstone Chapel, 1112 Cuba Avenue, on Wednesday, August 5 at 10 a.m.

The Green family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home to direct the funeral services.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Karen Judith "Joy" Green, please visit our floral store.