Karen Elizabeth Portell, 65, of Festus died Jan. 7, 2026, at Mercy Hospital Jefferson in Crystal City. Ms. Portell was a member of Our Lady Catholic Church in Festus. She loved listening to music, especially The Chicks, The Beatles and oldies from the 60s. She enjoyed visits from family members, their pets and kisses from Storm. Her favorite show was QVC, not buying, just watching. When she was younger, she participated in the Special Olympics and worked at the Jefferson County Sheltered Workshop. Born Aug. 23, 1960, in Festus, she was the daughter of Constance Rae “Connie” (Scott) and Richard Andrew “Dick” Portell of Festus.
In addition to her parents, she is survived by two sisters: Teresa “Terri” Portell of Farmington and Susan (Portell) Beseda of Festus; a brother: Kerry (Anna) Portell of Festus; and numerous other family members, friends and her My Place Residential family in Festus.
She was preceded in death by a brother: Scott Gregory Portell; and a nephew: Andrew Scott Beseda.
A memorial gathering is scheduled from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan.13, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus. Interment will be at a later date in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Crystal City. Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.