Brant Funeral Service

04/21/2026

A true legacy is about caring for the people you love, long after you’re gone.

Planning ahead allows you to protect your family from unexpected financial stress while ensuring your wishes are honored. It’s a thoughtful, meaningful way to give your loved ones peace of mind during a difficult time.

When you’re ready, we’re here to help you plan with care and confidence.

04/20/2026

Karen Elaine Parker

Karen Elaine Parker, age 62, of Portsmouth, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus. Born on October 6, 1963, in Portsmouth, she was the beloved daughter of the late Oscar C. Burns and Ollie Mae Brown Burns. Karen was a dedicated professional who retired as a paralegal.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Parker, and her brother, Cecil Burns.

Karen is lovingly remembered by the families of her three brothers: David Burns (wife Sharon King-Burns; daughters Davina Burns-Peters and Dana Burns-Purdie). Jerry Burns (wife Beth Schmidt-Burns, Son-Jerry Burns Jr., Daughters Amber Burns-Kleiman and Faith Burns-Schobert). Dennis Burns (wife Kathleen Crum-Burns, Son Timothy Burns, Daughters Denelle Burns-Veny and Bethany Burns-Avalos). Karen's loss is also mourned by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many cousins.

Karen was supported in the last years of her life by her companion Jeff Shales, his daughter Angie, his son Randy and their children and grandchildren.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brant Funeral Home in Sciotoville. Her life and memory are cherished by all who knew her.

View Karen Elaine Parker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/20/2026

https://www.brantfuneralservice.com/obituaries/karen-parker

View Karen Elaine Parker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/20/2026

National Volunteer Week 2026 runs from April 19–25. Today, on Volunteer Appreciation Day (April 20th), we recognize the incredible individuals who give their time, compassion, and heart to others.

In moments of loss and healing, volunteers often provide comfort in ways that truly matter, through a kind gesture, a listening ear, or simply being present.

Your selflessness helps strengthen our community and brings light to those who need it most. Thank you for all that you do.

04/18/2026

✨ Reason #7 to Preplan Your Funeral ✨
When you take the time to record your wishes, you’re giving your family the gift of clarity and peace. No guessing. No uncertainty. Just a clear plan that reflects exactly what you want.

Our highest priority is to honor every detail of your choices — thoughtfully, respectfully, and precisely.

If you’re ready to document your final wishes and ensure they’re carried out just as you intend, we’re here to help.
Give us a call today.

04/17/2026

One of the biggest advantages of preplanning is the ability to make informed financial decisions, on your terms.

Taking time now to explore options and plan ahead can help protect your family from unexpected costs and added stress in the future.

A little planning today can make a big difference tomorrow.

04/16/2026

National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) on April 16, 2026, encourages individuals to document their medical wishes through advance directives. The initiative focuses on normalizing conversations about end-of-life care, ensuring healthcare providers and families know a patient's preferences, and reducing the burden of decision-making during crises.

04/15/2026

Serving families is truly an honor, and your trust means everything to us.

If we’ve had the privilege of helping your family, whether in a time of need or through preplanning, we would be grateful if you shared your experience. Your kind words not only mean a great deal to us, but they also help guide other families when they need it most.

04/15/2026

April marks the Month of the Military Child, celebrating the resilience of nearly 2 million military-connected children worldwide. Featuring the theme "Military Children and Youth: Strength in Every Story," the month includes the official "Purple Up! Day" on April 15, 2026, encouraging everyone to wear purple to show support.

04/15/2026

A small act of kindness can make a big difference. Take time to show someone who’s grieving that they’re cared for and not alone. 💙

04/14/2026

Sid Krofft, the Canadian-born entertainment wizard who teamed with his brother and fellow puppeteer Marty Krofft to create such cult favorites as children’s 1960s TV show “H.R. Pufnstuf,” has died at age 96.

https://buff.ly/JDgwhO5

Sid Krofft has died at age 96. The Canadian-born entertainment wizard teamed with his brother Marty to create 1960s cult favorites like children's TV show “H.R.