Karen Lynn Wakefield 64, of Jacksonville North Carolina passed away on February 20th, 2026, at Lower Cape Fear Life Care in Wilmington.

Karen was born on May 17th 1961 in Spartanburg South Carolina to the late, Joe Lee "Pete" Wensil and Beedie Ruth Satterfield.

A service will be held Thursday February 26th at 3:00 pm at Onslow Memorial Park Cemetery, in the Chapel, 2380 Richlands Hwy, Jacksonville, NC.

She is survived by her husband of 42 years, David Wakefield. Son- Eric Cobb-Wakefield (Jennifer) Grandchildren- Hannah Wakefield, Zander Wakefield, Lexie Fox, Katie Foster and Wesley Foster. Siblings- Kathy Metro(Jim) Betty Jo Rex( Harold) Joe Wensil ( Tammy) and Kandey Butler. Numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and lifelong friends.

Karen was a devoted wife, for 42 years to a Beirut Veteran, whose love was committed,steadfast,cherished and unbreakable. As a mother she gave her whole heart- fiercely loving her son in every season of life. She beamed with joy every time she talked about her grandchildren and was a very proud and loving grandmother. And as a sister she was a steady place, a source of strength and comfort, deeply cherished and treasured beyond words. Karen was a great friend, and her friendships were loyal and timeless. She will be deeply missed; her love remains woven into the lives she touched.

Karen loved turtles, her home was filled with them, each one a small reflection of the peace and happiness they brought her. Friends and Family knew when they saw a turtle, "they thought of her."

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Lower Cape Fear Life Care Foundation, 1414 Physicians Drive. Wilmington, NC 28401 or online at lifecare.org  (in memory of Karen Wakefield)