Karyne K. Padilla

On Tuesday, October 19, 2021, Karyne Padilla passed away unexpectedly at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital in Vero Beach, Florida.  Karyne was born September 6, 1950 in Williamsport, PA to the late Gordon and Doris Kelley.

After several moves throughout her childhood, Karyne and her family lived in Monroeville, PA where she graduated from Gateway High School in 1968.  She then attended a dental hygienist program after graduation from high school. She met the love of her life, her husband Victor in Monroeville and they married in February, 1973.  Karyne and Victor moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to raise their two children, where her parents, siblings and their families also lived.  During those years Karyne helped out on many occasions with the family businesses, which were Charles Chips franchises that included Ft. Lauderdale, Miami and West Palm Beach to the Key West area.    Her fondest memories were those times working alongside her parents and the Kelley family.  Many unforgettable memories were created out of the comradery of the Charles Chips family and the Kelleys over the years. Numerous gatherings that celebrated holidays and events together were a special part of her life.  The legendary annual Christmas parties for Charles Chips employees, family and friends were held at the Kelley’s home every year and became a much anticipated event for all.

Karyne and Victor moved to Brandon, Florida in the early 1990’s where she pursued a career as a preschool teacher and curriculum instructor.  She spent twenty plus years relishing this role.    She had found her niche and embraced it, caring deeply for the wellbeing and happiness of all her students.  After her husband’s death in 1996, Karyne shared a home with her parents, eventually becoming a caretaker for them until their recent deaths.   Karyne moved to Vero Beach in June of this year with her daughter, Nicole, where they were just starting a new chapter of their lives.  She enjoyed tending to her plants, working on crafts and creating the best space and home for her and her daughter.  Karyne faced life and the challenges they brought with a strong, brave and independent spirit.  She was feisty, humorous and well loved. She will be deeply missed and remain forever in our hearts.

Karyne is preceded in death by her husband Victor in 1996 and her parents Gordon and Doris Kelley in 2019 and 2020.

She is survived by her son, Victor Eric Padilla and daughter Nicole Padilla.

Interment will be held at a later date in Brandon, Florida.  Nicole and Eric would like to thank family and friends for their prayers, support, visits and phone calls during this difficult time.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.