Karan Denise Robinson Merenda

Born: July 22, 1961 Waco, McLennan County, Texas

Died: May 2, 2020 McLennan County, Texas

Daughter of: James Alford and Edith Faye Childs Robinson

Wife of: Jerome Merenda

Karan Denise Merenda was born July 22, 1961 in Waco. She was the second child born to her parents, James and Faye Robinson. Teresa and Jamie were blessed to be her sisters. Karan had so many talents during her life, but being a servant of the Lord was her greatest gift. Her beautiful smile and warm heart touched everyone. Karan required no frills, she enjoyed the simple things in life. She was the salt of the earth. Giving to others and never asking anything in return. When her feelings were hurt, she forgave. She believed in living the word of Christ and sharing His word with others.

Karan was a graduate of China Spring High School class of 1980. She met the love of her life, Jerome Merenda, at Bosqueville Baptist Church when they were teenagers. They married September 10, 1983 and were married for 35 years before Jerome was called home to heaven in 2019. Together they served the Lord, enjoyed their family, friends and community. Both were athletes themselves and enjoyed playing co-ed softball. The team consisted of 90% family members. Karan worked at Ascension Providence for 19 years in the Durable Medical Equipment Division.

They were blessed to have three wonderful sons, Tanner, Austin and Carson who they loved with all of their hearts. Karan and Jerome supported their boys in all of their many sporting activities no matter the location or the weather. Karan enjoyed being part of the MOM’s clubs for the sporting events. An important part of their lives was worshiping at the First Baptist Church of Crawford and teaching their sons about Christ. We know that Jesus said “Welcome home my faithful servant.”

She is survived by her children, Tanner, Austin and Carson Merenda; sisters, Jamie Wolfe and husband, James and Teresa Gilliam and husband, Dale; sisters-in-law, Donna Von Staden, Diane Schrimsher and husband, Ed, and Dorleen Brown and husband, Larry; brother-in-law, Ed Merenda and wife, Shelly; beloved aunts and uncles, Pauline Smith, Carolyn Alexander and husband, Wayne, Larry Childs and wife, Virginia, Darrell Lyons and wife, Lena; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She will be honorably escorted to her final resting place by Tanner Merenda, Austin Merenda, Carson Merenda, Ed Merenda, Dale Gilliam, and Trey Busby.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Karan’s honor to Crawford Baptist Church, 110 S. Ave. D, Crawford, TX 76638.