Karen Lynn Eiler

Karen Lynn Eiler passed away on Monday, May 26th, in Danbury, Connecticut, at the age of 67. Born on November 3, 1957, in Indianapolis, Indiana, she was the daughter of Robert and Barbara Eiler.

Karen pursued her undergraduate studies at Butler University, where she earned a degree in Modern Foreign Languages. Demonstrating remarkable dedication and intellect, she graduated with honors in just three years. She began her professional career as a Systems Engineer and second-line manager at IBM before stepping away to raise her children.

As her children grew older, Karen followed a calling to spiritual service. She earned a Master of Divinity from Yale University and later completed four units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), which led to a fulfilling career in spiritual care. Her roles included Assistant to the Pastor at Rowayton United Methodist Church, Christian Education Director at Jesse Lee Memorial United Methodist Church, and Parish Pastor at the United Methodist Church of Danbury, Memorial UMC in White Plains, returning to Rowayton UMC, and finishing at Mary Taylor Memorial in Milford. 

After completing parish ministry, she has been joyfully affiliated with First UMC in Stamford. She also served as Executive Director of Greenwich Chaplaincy Services. Most recently, she completed spiritual director training through the Guild for Spiritual Guidance. She also enjoyed travelling with friends and family to various destinations around the world.

Karen is lovingly remembered by her children Andrew Jones, Beth Jones (Mike Obermayer), and Anna (Will) Jahn; her granddaughter Whitney Frances Jahn; her brothers Scott and Mark (Laura) Eiler; and her extended circle of loved ones including nephews Sam and Ben, several cousins, and Celeste (Farley), Elmarie, and Jillian. She will also be remembered by her extensive circle of loving friends and dedicated caregivers. 

She brought warmth and humor into everyday life - especially through her love of food and her self-taught cooking skills.

Karen’s life was marked by compassion, curiosity, and a deep commitment to spiritual growth. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her. Her family would like to thank the wonderful staff members at Memorial Sloan Kettering and Danbury Regional Hospice.  

A Memorial Service celebrating Karen's life will take place on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Jesse Lee Memorial United Methodist Church; 207 Main Street, Ridgefield. 

In lieu of flowers, charitable donations can be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital, your local hospice organization, or World Central Kitchen. 

Kane Funeral Home, Ridgefield is in care of arrangements.

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