Karen Panico- Willis

Karen Panico-Willis

June 12, 1959 – February 27, 2026

Karen Panico-Willis, born June 12, 1959, in Columbus, Ohio, and a resident of Cathedral City, California, passed away unexpectedly on February 27, 2026.

Karen was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, and friend to so many. She never met a stranger, if you knew her, you were family. She loved her children, grandchildren, and “all the kids she didn’t birth,” as she would always say. Her warmth and kindness left a lasting mark on everyone blessed enough to know her.

On September 25, 1976, she married the love of her life, Steven Willis. Together they built a life centered on love and family. She was the proud mother of Terence Willis, Jennifer (Stuart) Glover, and Debbie (Robert) Barnett. Her greatest joy was being Grandma to Tristen, Landon, Mason, Kolton, Ronan, Connor, and Tommy.

She is also survived by her beloved sister, Carita (Scott) Hatmaker, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who will cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Patricia and Thomas Panico, and her grandson, Remmington Barnett.

Karen’s favorite words were, “I love you more,” a phrase she shared often and wholeheartedly. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, kindness, and deep devotion to family. The world feels dimmer without her, but the love she poured into so many lives will continue to shine through all who knew her.

A viewing will be held for friends and family on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 69855 Ramon Road, Cathedral City, California 92234.