Karma Lea Werner, 61, of Grinnell, died on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at her home, surrounded by family, under care of UnityPoint Hospice.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Saturday, December 21, from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM at Smith Funeral Home – Grinnell, IA.

Karma was born on November 29, 1963, in Grinnell, Iowa, daughter of Keith Paulson and Shirley (Lowry) Paulson. A lifelong resident of Grinnell, Karma graduated from Grinnell High School with the Class of 1982. She pursued further education at Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) where she received an associate of applied arts degree in the legal secretarial program.

On May 30, 1992, Karma married Kelly Werner at First Friends Church. Throughout her career, Karma held various roles within the Grinnell school system and community. She worked as an office manager at Schild Law Office and later served as an administrative assistant for the Grinnell Athletic Director and Bailey Park Elementary Principal. Her commitment to nurturing young minds continued in her roles as an assistant cook at Fairview Elementary, head cook at Grinnell Middle School, and administrative assistant at Grinnell High School. In every position, Karma brought warmth, kindness, and an unwavering work ethic.

Karma's passions extended well beyond her professional life. She found immense joy in camping at Rock Creek State Park and treasured time spent with family and friends. A dedicated volunteer at the Poweshiek County Fairgrounds serving as a sheep superintendent. She worked closely with FFA students where she was an assistant advisor, leaving a meaningful legacy through her contributions to youth programs. Karma was also a member of First Friends Church of Grinnell, Jaycee's, Grinnell Eagles, and past President of Grinnell FFA Alumni Association. Also having served as a past treasurer and president of the Iowa Suffolk Sheep Association.

Those who knew Karma will remember her as strong-willed, caring, and open-hearted—a vibrant presence whose impact on her family, friends and community will not be forgotten.

Karma is survived by her husband, Kelly Werner of Grinnell; mother, Shirley Paulson of Grinnell; children, Kolton Werner of Ankeny, Kayte Werner of Independence, WI, Kevin (Gwen Black) Werner of Ames; an honorary son, Nick Darland, of Des Moines; grandson, Adrian of Independence, WI; siblings, Mark (Brenda) Paulson and Craig (Kim) Paulson both of Grinnell, and many nieces and nephews. Karma is preceded in death by her father, Keith Paulson, and sister, Nesha Meyer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be designated to Grinnell FFA Alumni Association, Poweshiek County Fairgrounds, or Iowa Suffolk Sheep Association (JR show) and mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.smithfh.com.