Karen Miles , 84, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2026, in Richland, Washington.

No services will be held.

Karen was born on October 10, 1941, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Lee Edgar and Betty Jean (Turnbow) Edgar, who preceded her in death.

Karen is survived by her children: Gerry Kincheloe of Gainesville, Florida; Corey Kincheloe of West Richland, Washington; Ryan Gross of Boise, Idaho; and Pamela (Gross) Knighton of Boise, Idaho. She is also survived by her sister, Janice Martin of Puyallup, Washington, along with grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Karen lived a life rooted in history, genealogy, and a deep love for community. She was the founder of the Historic Streets Project in Richland, Washington , an idea she both envisioned and implemented. In a single year, the project placed 207 historic markers throughout the city, preserving local history and strengthening the connection between neighbors and place. This project reflected Karen’s passion for honoring the past and ensuring that stories were remembered. Through this work and through her daily life, Karen quietly shaped the character of the community she loved so dearly.

Karen was deeply supported by her cherished church family within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints . Their love was shown not only through prayer and fellowship, but through Christlike acts of service, including providing meals, lawn care, house painting, and steady companionship. These gestures were received with profound gratitude. Our family is eternally grateful for the Christ like example of loving service the church provided.

Her neighbors were, in every sense, family. Over decades of friendship, kindness, and mutual care, they stood by Karen, her parents Lee and Betty Edgar, and her loved ones through life’s many seasons, offering help with home repairs, sharing laughter, and showing up when it mattered most. Karen was truly blessed to live on a street where people looked after one another, where community was not just a word but a lived commitment. It was a place she cherished, and a blessing we never took for granted.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to plant a tree or flowers in Karen’s honor.