Karen Lea Lesher

Karen Lea Lesher, née Butler, passed away August 1, 2026, at her home surrounded by many family members. She was 61. Karen was born in Toledo on August 29, 1964, to George, Sr. and Joan Butler, née Saylor. The family lived in Toledo until moving to Deerfield in 1976. On July 28, 1984, Karen married Larry Lesher from Deerfield, and together they raised a family in that village. Most of her adult life was spent as a homemaker with occasional employment in the service industry. She proudly witnessed each of her children graduate from Deerfield High School, and then begin families of their own. Without a doubt, she delighted in her ever-growing family. When their children were adults, Larry and Karen moved to Toledo. Karen had the privilege of traveling to many places in the United States as well as Mexico, Canada, Germany, and Austria. Larry and Karen enjoyed attending rock concerts, from Beatles tributes to REO Speedwagon and Alice Cooper. She enjoyed watching musicals and she saw many shows at the Stranahan Theater and Croswell Opera House and in Rensselaer, Indiana, where two of her grandchildren performed. Despite all odds, she showed up to cheer on her grandchildren at their sporting events. She always rooted for Ohio State and for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Above all, Karen was a fighter who overcame many health obstacles. Now she is at rest. She will be missed by all who knew her. In addition to her husband of 42 years, Karen is survived by a sister, Tracy (John) Palmer, and a brother, George Butler, Jr; two sons, Anthony (Brenda) Butler and Brandon (Samantha) Lesher, and three daughters, Melissa Lesher, Brittany (Jennifer Dennis) Warchol, and Lacey (Nick) Mahon. Additionally she leaves behind 16 grandchildren: Owen, Norah, Chloe, Savannah, Caden, Jaxon, Adelynn, Makenzie, Brayden, Penelope, Ellie, Jonathan, Sage, Ashton, Mason and Karli. She also was blessed with two great grandchildren, Carter and Kaya. Karen was preceded in death by her parents and two grandchildren, Carter and McKenna. A visitation will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Wagley Funeral Home, Tagsold Chapel, Blissfield. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home and will be officiated by Dr. Anthony Butler, DMin. Burial to follow at Deerfield Twp. Cemetery.

Karen Lea Lesher

August 29, 1964 - August 1, 2026