Karen Garabedian, 78, of Salem, NH passed away unexpectedly at her home on Oct. 7, 2026.

Karen grew up in Salem, the daughter of the late Hallie and Joseph Perry. She graduated from Woodbury High School, Class of 1965, and earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Rivier College.

Karen was an active and devoted member of the Ararat Armenian Congregational Church in Salem, NH. Her church community held a special place in her heart, where she was especially well known for her pilaf at shish kebab suppers and the baked goods she lovingly prepared for coffee hour. Sharing her baking with others was one of the many ways Karen expressed her warmth and generosity. Karen also found great joy in crafting and cooking. She loved preparing feasts for family and friends on holidays. She enjoyed planning trips to Disney World, and could usually be found with her two Yorkies by her side.

Above all, Karen treasured her family. After being predeceased by her husband, Jack Garabedian, at a young age, she was devoted to raising her daughters, who are forever grateful. In more recent years, Karen especially cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren. They brought her immense happiness and were a very special part of her life.

Karen will be remembered for her kind heart, generous spirit, devotion to her family and church and the love she shared so freely with those around her. She leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Karen is survived by her daughters, Jessica Hemmer and her husband Kevin of Melrose, MA and Paula Leon and her husband Christopher of Salem, NH; her three siblings, Kevin Perry of the UK, Kathy Chouinard of VT, and Keith Perry of AZ; six grandchildren, Anna, Fiona, Jack, Declan, Charlotte, and Frankie; her best friend since fifth grade, Donna Oldeman and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, October 15, from 4 to 7 PM at Douglas and Johnson Funeral Home, 214 Main Street, Salem, NH 03079. The funeral service will be celebrated on Friday, October 16, at 10 AM at the Ararat Armenian Congregational Church. Please arrive by 9:45AM.

Contributions in Karen’s name may be made to the Ararat Armenian Congregational Church, 2 Salem St., Salem, NH 03079.

To send a message of condolence to the family, please view the obituary at www.douglasandjohnson.com