Karen M. O’Donnell

Karen M. O’Donnell, 66, of Plano, Texas, passed away suddenly on October 5, 2026, after a severe asthma episode at her home.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Karen lived in Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Dallas. She earned a business degree from the University of Georgia in 1985 and a degree in dental hygiene from Baylor College of Dentistry in 1994, both with high honors.

Karen found fulfillment in her work at Stelly Family Dentistry for over 30 years. Her dedication, intelligence, and gentle manner made a lasting impression on her colleagues and patients.

A shy child, Karen grew into a clever, perceptive, and funny woman. She had a quick wit and a gift for finding humor in everyday moments. She was a loyal sister, cherished daughter, and devoted aunt.

Karen had a deep love for dogs. She saw the goodness and vulnerability in every animal, especially those who had been abandoned or neglected. She welcomed foster dogs into her home, giving them love and rehabilitation.

Karen, remembered with love by her sisters Debby and Susan, brother Jim, her nephew Nathan Brinkman, niece Isabella Bolding and her husband Logan, and extended family, friends, colleagues, and patients, formed loyal, humorous, and caring relationships. Her sudden loss leaves an emptiness, but her humor, kindness, compassion, and love will remain in their hearts.

There will be a morning of remembrance from 10:00 a.m.to noon, Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Allen Family Funeral Options.  

In her honor, memorial contributions may be made to Operation Kindness, an organization dedicated to helping animals in need at: https://www.operationkindness.org/make-a-donation/