Karen S. Brooks (1962-2024) passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, July 16, 2024. She truly had no permanent address since as a Travel Director [Inspire Meetings & Events, LLC, Freelance Meeting Planner], she could be anywhere at any given time. Whether leading the entrance of attendees at an event in Scotland, her camera often captured the bagpipes playing or a group of football players dancing on the shores of China. The wanderlust that defined her identity can only be imagined as you look at the directory of her travels. She spent countless weeks in Spain, Mexico, Denmark, Italy, Argentina, Japan, China, Canada, and Greece. Karen spent a lot of time in Asia. Her T.D. friend Tiffany says, "I don't think there's a country she didn't like. They were all unique as Karen used to say." She would often extend her stays after conferences and conventions to see the World. But places were a small piece of her life—people were the source of her existence. Spirituality was wrapped in kindness, compassion, and positivity. And God sent Guides, Tiffany and Tiffany to assist her families in finding her after her final journey. Karen's Travel-Director Family was her main source of interaction since they were together both in-person and virtually before, during, and after all Events. She loved each and every one of them and was certainly a source of support and wit. Karen's family has received multiple messages of love such as: I loved working with her. She brought so much sunshine to everyone around her. I feel lucky to have been able to work with such a kind, positive, encouraging woman. We can pay it forward, sharing kindness and positivity. Karen's family also includes long-time friends, Amy, Gina, Allyson, and Susan. Imagine spending hours reminiscing as you catch up frequently—time and distance never diminished the love she had for each of them. They dedicated themselves to being available for each other, and Karen continued to share sunshine and kindness and receive the love and support she wanted. But the strongest fountain of love flowed to and from her nieces and nephews. Stunning gifts from around the world capture stories and memories of Aunt Karen. Her last photograph reveals a moment of sheer delight and love with some of them. Just ask Joshua (Tina), Jamison (Heather), Matthew (Maggie), Brooke (Vinny), Christopher (Mackenzie), Kristen (Billy) and their families (+12)…Aunt Karen showered each and every one of them with love and a sense of adventure—and a dose of desire for debate. Her kindness empowered them to dream big! Karen's sisters, Karla (Jim) and Sheri (Kent) will forever cherish childhood memories of Karen, and the connection with family who passed away previously never diminished in Karen's admiration and love, especially for her beloved mother, Majorie and her brother, Jim. Others awaiting her arrival are: her father, Carl and her sister-in-law, Kendra. Karen grew up loving animals, especially cats and horses. Anyone who knew her knew her passion for cats. Her final Event was the Best Friends National Conference held in Orlando, Florida. Her family grew–everyone loved her, and she loved them too! This group extended themselves to Karen's family with kindness. God is near. Best Friends Animal Society provides sanctuary for homeless pets as they await forever families. In lieu of flowers we ask that you consider paying tribute to Karen's compassion and love by donating to: Memorial Fundraisers: Search for a Participant or Team - Best Friends Animal Society A private Celebration of Life for Karen will be held at the Family's convenience, and you'd better believe there will be cards, stories, and love shared by everyone.