Karen I. Scott

Karen Irene Scott, a radiant soul whose creativity, curiosity, and compassion illuminated every life she touched, passed away on October 24, 2025 in Virginia. Born on April 16, 1940, in Denver, Colorado, to William Herbert (Herb) and Ethel Reed (Cockerill) of Byers, CO, Karen’s life was a masterpiece of color, kindness, and lifelong learning.

From her earliest days, Karen approached the world with a boundless sense of wonder and a steadfast belief in the power of education. After graduating with honors from Byers High School in 1958, she attended Colorado State College, earning her degree in Education in 1962. Never one to stop learning, she went on to receive a Master’s degree in Gifted and Talented Education from the University of Northern Colorado in 1984.

For over four decades, Karen devoted her heart and talent to teaching in the Byers School District. She was a passionate advocate for children and education, inspiring generations of students to think creatively, question deeply, and believe in themselves.

Karen supported her community in countless ways — volunteering with the Performing Arts Center, sewing costumes for local productions, and sharing her musical talent as a pianist at community events. She elevated others naturally and generously, always going the extra mile for her students, her neighbors, and anyone who needed a hand.

Karen’s public contributions were many, but her greatest joys were found at home. She married John Ernest Scott, the love of her life, on August 5, 1961, at the Presbyterian Church in Byers. Together, they shared 38 beautiful years raising two sons and helping with the family farm. Karen was deeply devoted to her family, cherishing every moment spent with those she loved most.

Beyond her home and classroom, Karen’s spirit for adventure and love of the natural world carried her far and wide. She traveled to every continent, casting lines in new waters and finding beauty in every landscape. Whether fishing, hunting, or simply exploring, she embraced each experience with enthusiasm and gratitude.

Karen is survived by her sister Kristine Reed of Virginia; her sons Carroll W (CW) Scott and wife Melissa of Fort Morgan, and John Glen (Colonel) Scott of Castle Pines; her two beloved grandchildren, Casey and Demri; and many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nephews, and nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, William Herbert (Herb) and Ethel Reed, her husband John Ernest Scott, and her granddaughter Samantha Kaye Scott.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, November 20, at 1:00 p.m. at Mountain View Fellowship in Strasburg, followed by a gravesite service at Byers Cemetery and reception at the Byers American Legion Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Karen’s name to the Gifted and Talented Program at Byers High School — a cause close to her heart and a fitting tribute to her lifelong dedication to education.

Karen’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched — in her family, her students, and all who were inspired by her zest for life, generous heart, and belief in the power of learning.