Karen Laney

Karen Denise Laney, 50, of Chattanooga, passed away Thursday, June 28, 2012, at Erlanger Hospital with her family by her side.Karen faced her illness with strength, courage and dignity. She stood in midst of the storm and when the wind did not blow her way and it surely did not she smiled and adjusted her sails. Karens life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by her understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. She loved to cook, and nothing brought her more joy than cooking a holiday feast surrounded by her family. Her sense of humor, laughter, and beautiful smile brought joy and happiness to all that knew her.She is survived by sister, Pamela Franklin; brothers, Richard Gore and Terry Thomas; daughters, Jennifer McElhaney, Jana Redish, Amanda Collins and Angie Taylor; son, David Redish; niece, Heather Painter; and eight grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Margaret Thomas; and brother, Tommy Thomas.At her request no service will be held. She has chosen to return to the beach she loved so dearly in Miramar Beach (Destin), Fla.Donations may be sent to Vanderbilt Transplant Center, Nashville.Share your memories, stories and photos at www.legacyfuneralhome.com.Arrangements are by Legacy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Soddy-Daisy.