Karen M. Cunha (Grylls), age 66, of Wellston, Ohio and formerly of Pawtucket, Rhode Island passed away Sunday, May 16th, 2021, after an extended illness that she fought courageously. She was born October 1, 1954, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island to the late Thomas C. Grylls and Rita P. Lariviere Grylls.

Karen was a former department store manager for Murray's Department Store in Rhode Island. She was a hard worker who supported her family with pride and provided excellent customer service to the patrons of the store. She was fast to give a smile and a laugh, setting those around her at ease quickly. She loved playing all kinds of games, especially backgammon and double solitaire and various card games with her friends, and also greatly enjoyed occasional trips to the casino. She had a fondness for animals. One in particular she had a special connection with, "Dash" the Dachshund, held a special place in her heart. She loved to watch Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy and found inspiration in the life of Alex Trebek, who battled an illness of his own. She spoke with a very thick North Eastern accent and people just loved to hear the stories she would tell with her animated personality. She loved to take walks and do crafting as well as puzzles and reading books. She had a deep love for her family and friends and having cookouts and "clam bakes". She was a very detail-oriented person even while giving gifts; she required that every Christmas present be wrapped with precision and must include a bow and a Christmas tree ornament. She loved music and attending concerts, especially Carly Simon and Blake Shelton, and she attended many concerts by multiple musicians over the years.

Karen is survived by her daughter, Carly Womeldorf (Eric) of Wellston, Ohio; son, Michael Shottek (Johanna Rivera) of Pawtucket, Rhode Island; Goddaughter, Kimberly (Kevin) Jarl LeBlanc of Duxbury, Massachusetts; Godson, Matthew (Matty) Jarl of Cumberland, Rhode Island; two grandsons, Michael Shottek, Jr., and Samuel H.R. Womeldorf who lovingly referred to her as "gram cracker"; brother-in-law, Robert Jarl; lifelong best friend, her sister, Melissa Grylls; along with many nieces and nephews, including her Princess Rachelle Grylls, cousins and friends, including special long-time friend, Marilyn Phaneuf and dog Dash.

Besides her parents, Karen was preceded in death by her grandson Joseph E. Womeldorf; and siblings, Sandra Jarl, Thomas C. Grylls, Jr. and Lisa Grylls Ashburne (Jack).

In keeping with Karen's wishes, she was cremated. There will be a private Celebration of Life with friends and family in Rhode Island to be announced at a later date. Her ashes, according to her instructions, will be planted with a tree on the family property near her grandson Joseph.  Arrangements are under the direction of the McWilliams Funeral Home in Wellston.  Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com.