Karen E. Hartness, of Columbia, passed away Tuesday, May 16, 2023. She was born September 20, 1963, a daughter of Richard and Minnie Epting.

Karen was a graduate of Columbia High School. She went on to earn a bachelor's degree from The University of South Carolina School of Nursing. Karen enjoyed being a nurse for over 20 years and loved spending time with her family. She was passionate about all things nature, especially planting flowers and rescuing animals.

In addition to her mother, Karen is survived by her two children, Brent (Chelsea) Hartness and Lauren Hartness; two grandchildren, Isaiah Hartness and Gabriel Hartness; as well as her former husband, Danny (Dawn) Hartness. She was preceded in death by her father, Richard A. Epting; infant sibling, Deborah Epting, and sister, Maria Keefe.

The memorial service for family and friends will be held at 3 o'clock Saturday, May 27th, at Arsenal Hill Presbyterian Church, 1103 Laurel St, Columbia, SC. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.