Karen Dufrene Brabham

Karen Dufrene Brabham, born October 25, 1946, passed away peacefully July 24, 2026 at 11:14 AM.

Karen loved her family wholeheartedly. She enjoyed music, dancing and family gatherings. She never met a stranger, always had a smile and “hey there” for anyone she encountered. She was married to the love of her life, James D. Brabham for 50 years, before preceding her death. Her happy smile will be truly missed.

Also preceded in death are her mother, Loubelle D. Bye; father, Thomas C. Dufrene, Jr.; stepfather, Joseph L. Bye, Sr.; brothers James “Jimmy” Dufrene and Thomas C. Dufrene, III.

Karen is survived by her 4 children, Rachael Dupre (Ryan), LouEllen Pellegrin (Lance), James D. Brabham, Jr. (Sheryl) and Thomas T. Brabham (Elizabeth). Also, she was blessed with 2 “bonus” children that she treasured as her own, Michelle Guidry (Robert) and Lonnie Pelotto (Leslie), one sister, Joelle B. Bivens (Clyde) and brothers, Joseph L. Bye, Jr. and Johnny Bye. Also survived by 19 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren, whom she loved spending time with.

Pallbearers will be James D. Brabham, Jr., Parker Guidry, TJ Cheramie, Thomas T. Brabham, Austin Brabham, Brad Bivens, Tristan Billiot and Trayce Billiot.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm on Friday, July 31, 2026 at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, Paradis, LA. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 pm with burial to follow in St. Gertrude Cemetery, Des Allemands, LA.

Special thanks to the Homestead Assisted Living and staff and Ms. Belinda Edwards.

Samart-Mothe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.