Karen Elizabeth Gordon

With profound sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Karen Elizabeth Gordon on May 4, 2026, after a courageous battle with glioblastoma brain cancer.

Karen faced nearly two years of illness with remarkable strength, dignity, grace, and an unwavering sense of humour. Even through the hardest moments, her warmth and light continued to shine brightly for everyone around her.

Karen leaves behind her devoted husband, Shane Smith, her partner of more than 20 years. Together they shared a love of music, concerts, dancing, and the outdoors, building a life filled with adventure, laughter, and deep love. Their greatest joy was their children, Ellis, who predeceased her, and Fay, whose creativity and beautiful spirit made Karen endlessly proud. At just 13 years old, Fay’s artistic talent and deep soul brought immeasurable happiness to her mother.

Karen is lovingly remembered by her mother, Nancy Gordon, and Randy, who cherished every moment with their energetic and joyful daughter, born in the United Kingdom. Karen and her mother shared a close bond filled with travel, support, and daily connection throughout Karen’s life.

She will also be deeply missed by her brother, Paul Gordon, and Anne Bradley. Karen and Paul shared countless memories filled with laughter, cottage adventures, ski trips, and lifelong companionship.

Karen grew up in Old Ottawa South and attended Hopewell Avenue Public School, Canterbury High School, and Glebe Collegiate Institute. She dedicated her career to supporting students with special needs through the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board, working at Centennial Public School and Sir Guy Carleton Secondary School. Her compassion and extraordinary gifts in this field earned her a Director’s Citation Award.

Karen was truly a spark — vibrant, spirited, loving, and full of life. Her energy lifted everyone around her, and her presence could light up any room.

The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Karen’s incredible “army” of friends, led by Emma Inns, who stood beside her every day throughout her journey, bringing laughter, meals, comfort, and unwavering support. Their kindness was an immeasurable gift to Karen and her family.

Special thanks are also extended to Auntie Sue, whose nursing knowledge, hospice experience, humour, meals, and tireless organization carried the family through many difficult days. Deep appreciation is also given to Paul Gordon for his daily visits, coffee runs, help with Onyx, and constant loving support.

The family is profoundly grateful for the countless acts of kindness shown by the Lawford, McDonell, Gordon, and Smith families, neighbours, Nancy’s generous friends, Shane and Karen’s co-workers, generous donors, and many others whose compassion made this difficult journey easier.

The family would also like to thank Kindra Lewis and Sandra Spicer for their care and support, as well as the teams at The Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus Neurosurgery, the 7th Floor Neurosurgery staff, Oncology at The Ottawa Hospital General Campus, the Bayshore HealthCare Palliative Care Team, the St. Vincent Team, and the Grimes Lodge Team.

Karen is now reunited with her beloved father Randy and her dear son Ellis — dancing, laughing, and twinkling above forever.

Her electrifying presence, radiant smile, and joyful spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Karen’s words to all of us:

*“Look on the bright side of life… be happy.”*

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a Special Needs Program, the Ottawa Children’s Treatment Centre, or a palliative care organization of your choice.