With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Barbara Marie Karner on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at the age of 94.

Barbara is survived by her children Joe Karner, Mark (Beth) Karner, JoAnne (Scott) Schauer, Denise (Conrad) Schubert, and Bob (Mary) Karner. She was a devoted grandmother to seven grandchildren and a proud great-grandmother to fourteen great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Karner; her beloved son, Kevin Karner; her parents, Frank and Evelyn Bolger; her sister, Beverly Klein; and her brothers, Patrick and Richard Bolger.

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Barbara found the love of her life during High School and married Robert. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and love. Shortly after they started their family, Robert was called to serve in the Korean War. During his deployment and throughout their marriage, Barbara’s strength, resilience, and dedication to her family never wavered.

As the mother of six children, Barbara devoted herself to creating a loving home while also working first part-time and later full-time to help support her family. She met life’s challenges with quiet determination, grace, and an open heart. In 2018, she moved to Raleigh to be closer to children and grandchildren, cherishing every opportunity to spend time with the family she deeply loved.

Barbara will be remembered for her warm smile, generous heart, and unconditional love she shared so freely. Even in death, Barbara continues to give to others by donating her body to the UNC School of Medicine in support of medical education and research. Her legacy of kindness, perseverance, and selfless love will continue to live on in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Barbara’s memory may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation or the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation.

A memorial service celebrating Barbara’s life will be held at the Saint Francis of Assisi Chapel on Saturday, August 1st, at 11:00 am, followed by a reception for family and friends.

Barbara’s family is deeply grateful for the love and support they have received during this difficult time. While she will be profoundly missed, they find comfort in knowing her love will remain with them always.