Ms. Karen C. Savwoir

Karen Cecilia Savwoir, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, Godmother and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Kansas City, Kansas, on April 14, 2025, in the arms of her devoted son. She was 78 years old. Born on January 28, 1947, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Henry Savwoir Sr. and Mildred Mazin, Karen was their firstborn child. Although born in Missouri, Karen spent most of her formative years in New Orleans, Louisiana, where she was lovingly raised by her grandparents and her aunt Dorothy. She graduated from Joseph S. Clark High School in 1964, and with perseverance and dedication, later earned her associate in arts degree from Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, 1987. In 1969, after moving back to Kansas City from New Orleans, Karen met the love of her life, Terry Rowe Sr. Though never married, their love story was legendary he was her Clyde, and she was his Bonnie. Together, they built a life filled with partnership, laughter, and dreams. They welcomed their only child, Terry Dewain Rowe II, on July 12, 1978. From that moment on, Karen’s life centered around being the best mother she could be, instilling Christian values and unwavering love in her son’s life. Karen enjoyed many passions, she had a flair for doing hair, a deep love for Southern cuisine, and a true talent for cooking. But her favorite pastime was undoubtedly shopping always in search of a great deal, sometimes bringing home multiples of the same item with a smile and a laugh. She retired from CitiGroup in the early 2000s as a Collections Specialist, allowing her to fully embrace her most treasured role being a grandmother. The birth of her first grandchild, Jordyn Nicole Rowe, in 2002 filled Karen with indescribable joy. She was a natural nurturer, a loving and proud Grandma who poured her heart into her grandchildren. In 2005, her grandson, Terry Dewain Rowe III ("Trey"), arrived, and her heart grew even fuller. Whether babysitting or cheering from the bleachers at basketball games, Karen never missed a moment. Even before she was Grandma, Karen was a loving Godmother to Kaleisha Barnes, the granddaughter of her very best friend Massie Bradford. A role she cherished. To those who knew her, Karen was kind, nurturing, and strong. As the eldest sibling, she witnessed the growth of her family across generations, serving as a steady and loving presence. Her absence leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who loved her. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Henry Savwoir Sr.; and Mildred Mazin; her aunt, Dorothy Cousins; her life partner, Terry Rowe Sr.; and her beloved grandparents, Lillian and Henry Mazin; and Lavinia and Joseph Savwoir. She is survived by her son, Terry Rowe II (Autumn); her cherished grandchildren, Jordyn Rowe; and Terry Rowe III; her siblings, Michael Savwoir; Henry Savwoir Jr. (Gail); and Susan Savwoir-Reynolds (Kenneth); she is also survived by her bonus family, Lamarr Lewis; James Rowe; Michael (Hazel) Rowe; Daniel Rowe; Donald Rowe; Sherri Brown; Teresa Brooks; Pamela (Bradford) Mason; Lisa Henderson-Rowe; Rochelle Rowe; Audrina (Tony) Union; a host of nieces; nephews; cousins; and dear friends. Karen’s memory will be forever cherished, and her legacy of love, warmth, and grace will live on through all the lives she touched. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Greater New Bethel AME Church 1820 N. 55th Street KCKS 66104. Interment: Leavenworth National Cemetery Monday, April 28, 2025. Visitation from 10-11:00 a.m. at the Church. Arrangements entrusted to Lawrence A. Jones & Sons Funeral Chapels. Condolences may be shared on our website lawrenceajones.com

Ms. Karen C. Savwoir

January 28, 1947 - April 14, 2025