San Jose, CA

Karen Elizabeth Mullaly passed on December 19, 2024 at the age of 79. She died peacefully at home with her son, Brian, and daughter, Megan, by her side.

Karen’s aura was magnetic; her bright light illuminated everyone and everything. She took immense joy in being a mother of three and grandmother to her lucky seven grandchildren. Her dedication to the field of education impacted countless lives.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Karen was raised in Campbell surrounded by orchards. She attended St. Lucy School in Campbell, Notre Dame High School in San Jose, and San Jose State University. She also loved working at Frontier Village. After receiving her undergraduate degree in English, she went on to receive a master’s degree in education.

Karen started teaching at Vineland Elementary in 1967.

She was employed at Union School District for 40 years.

After earning her school administration credential, Karen served as Principal of Guadalupe, Noddin, and Alta Vista Elementary Schools where she received many accolades and awards including California Distinguished School and National Blue Ribbon. She created lasting bonds with her beloved school communities. She also served as Director of Human Resources for USD where she hired, trained, and supported educators. Karen retired from her incredible career in 2007 to start her favorite job of all – Grandma!

In addition to her successful career, Karen was a woman of many talents. She ran four flower shops and a successful cake decorating business while raising her family. She created from her heart; she loved celebrating life!

Karen’s strong-willed Irish personality coupled with her faith in Catholicism gave her endless strength through her years of battling Parkinson’s disease. She received loving care in her home; our family is eternally grateful for her caregiving team and hospice care.

Karen (Mom/Grandma), always will be remembered by her three children: Megan (Mullaly) Davies, Michelle (Mullaly) Hughes, and Brian Mullaly; by her children-in-law: Phil, Tim, and Megan; by her grandchildren: Owen, Michael, Brayden, Gavin, Evan, Emma, and Liam; by her brother Mel Duffey, sister-in-law Corie (Amarillo) Duffey; by her nephew Michael Duffey and niece Erin (Duffey) Brown.

Karen was the best Mom and Grandmother in the whole wide world! She forever will live in our hearts and souls as our eternal angel in Heaven.

We invite Karen’s family and friends to honor and celebrate Karen: Memorial Visitation with Rosary, 6-7 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025 at Darling Fischer Memorial Chapel (Campbell, CA), and Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2025 at St. Lucy Catholic Church (Campbell, CA).

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research and/or Sacred Heart Community Service of San Jose, CA.