Karen Ann Howland

Karen Ann Howland, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted servant of the Lord, went to rest in the arms of Jesus on September 6, 2025, at the age of 83. A resident of Arlington, Texas, Karen previously made her home in Lincoln, Nebraska, where she touched countless lives through her music, faith, and kindness.

A gifted concert pianist and musician, Karen dedicated her life to glorifying God through music. She served faithfully as the Minister of Music at First Evangelical Covenant Church in Lincoln, where she played piano and organ, directed the church choir, and led with grace and excellence. Karen was also a professional music accompanist at Lincoln High School for over 30 years and offered private piano and voice lessons to students of all ages. Karen also volunteered her musical talents for countless hours leading Lincoln’s Senior Chorus and at the Lincoln Community Playhouse Productions. She found joy in sharing the gift of music, nurturing talent in children, young adults, and senior citizens alike.

Karen lived a life that exemplified unconditional love, perseverance, and unwavering faith. Her actions consistently reflected her deep relationship with Jesus, and she was known for saying, “Keep short accounts with God and the people you love.” She taught by example the value of integrity, hard work, and compassion, leaving a lasting legacy for her family and all who knew her.

A proud graduate of Nebraska Wesleyan University, class of 1992, member of the Mu Phi Epsilon Sorority and Mu Phi Epsilon Alumni Network. Karen was also a dedicated member of P.E.O. from 1992 to 2025, serving as a past chapter president in Lincoln, Nebraska.

In her leisure time, Karen loved music, reading, baking, and watching birds from her home patio. Her generosity continued even after death—she would be “tickled pink” to know that her pacemaker has been donated to SPCA Animal Welfare, where it will benefit a Great Dane for an owner who cannot afford this life saving measure.

Karen is survived by her loving children: Joy Howland; Cara (Howland) and Tom Hackley; Andrew and Cindy (Herbranson) Howland; and Del Howland, father of their children Joy, Cara, and Andrew. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Sterling and Megan, Landon, Garrison, and Larissa Hackley; Jacob, Joshua, Ashley, and Colby Howland; and her precious great-granddaughter, Mia Hackley.

She was preceded in death by her parents, C.J. and Hattie Rogers; her brother, Albert; and sister, Marilyn.

Karen’s life was a beautiful melody of faith, family, and service. Until we are reunited in Heaven, we will carry you in our hearts, dear Mom, Grammy, and Great-Grammy.