Karen Laughlin Eckert

November 15, 1943 - August 12, 2026

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Obituaries

Karen Laughlin Eckert

Karen Laughlin Eckert passed away surrounded by the love of the family that meant everything to her.

Karen was a devoted wife to her husband, Fred, and a loving mother to Doug, Brian, and Cindy. Known to her family as Lulu or KK, she was a cherished sister, grandmother, aunt and the center of a family that she spent a lifetime encouraging, supporting, and keeping connected.

Fred often said the first thing he noticed about Karen was her beauty. The second was that she was every bit as beautiful on the inside. Those who knew her would understand exactly what he meant.

Karen had a gift for making people feel loved and found happiness in simple things: morning coffee in the recliners, a good mystery, puzzles, Reagan her dog, a grande decaf mocha, and almost any dessert worth clapping for.

She traveled widely and met kings and presidents, but never forgot her Mississippi roots -- or lost the Southern accent that grew stronger when talking with family back home. She collected ceramic shoes, birds, and nativities carefully displayed each Christmas.

Above all else, Karen loved her family. She showed up, sent the text, liked the post, welcomed the visit, wanted the details, and made sure those she loved knew she was in their corner. She lived with grace and a quiet toughness. Her family will miss her hugs, her beautiful smile, and the comfort of simply knowing she was there.

Her faith was an important part of her life, reflected in the grace, kindness, and care she showed others. She was Lulu. Her husband, children, and grandchildren loved her deeply and will carry her in their hearts always.

Services

14 Aug

Mass

03:00 PM

St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church 5801 Falls of Neuse Rd. Raleigh, NC 27609 Get Directions »
Obituaries
14 Aug

Columbarium Service

04:00 PM

St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church 5801 Falls of Neuse Rd. Raleigh, NC 27609 Get Directions »
Obituaries
by Obituary Assistant

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Tributes

  • 12 TREES

    Mr. and Mrs. Edward H Howard planted 12 trees in memory of Karen Laughlin Eckert . - August 15, 2026

    Plant trees for Karen Laughlin Eckert

  • Beautiful Dreams

    Elizabeth Sierakowski sent Beautiful Dreams for Karen Laughlin Eckert - August 13, 2026

    In loving memory of Karen, to honor her great legacy of the love and strength she gave her family. She will be deeply missed. Dr. Sierakowski, Dr. Webb, Nikki Fowler, and the Essential Health Team

  • 5 TREES

    Essential Health - January 01, 1970

    In loving memory of Karen, to honor her great legacy of the love and strength she gave her family. She will be deeply missed. Dr. Sierakowski, Dr. Webb, Nikki Fowler, and the Essential Health Team

Condolences

  • August 13, 2026

    If there were ever a second momma to us all, Karen fit the bill. She was not only Cindy's mom, but had her own rap persona, 2Cent, always ready to share her opinion (and sometimes a few cents extra). She would join the glass table with her sweet Southern way, her happy laugh, and tiny side of sass. We were so lucky to have her as part of the family— first at Slate and then at Sprout. She was fiercely proud of Cindy, and I'm certain she's telling all of heaven about her family and everything they've accomplished. I'm grateful she was surrounded by the people she loved most, and very thankful to have had her as part of my extended pink family for all of these years. She will truly be missed.💗

  • Obituaries

    August 13, 2026

    Thinking of you and wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time. Mrs. Karen will be missed.

  • Obituaries

    August 13, 2026

    I am so sad to hear of Karen's passing. She was always such a joy and I looked forward to our visits over the years. My prayers are with all of you as we remember her beautiful life. - Danielle Mitchell

  • Obituaries

    August 13, 2026

    Our hearts are so saddened to learn of Karen's passing. She was always such a sweet lady and we will miss seeing her at Generations.

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