Karen L. Bost

A Life Well Lived Karen Lynn Bost was born on January 4, 1950, in Chester, Pennsylvania, to the late Avery Bost, Sr. and Esther Bost. On June 1, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, Karen was called home to glory, where she entered eternal rest with her Heavenly Father. Karen’s faith was rooted in Calvary Baptist Church of Chester, where she attended from a young age alongside her mother and siblings, establishing a lifelong spiritual foundation. It was there that she later made a profound personal commitment to Christ and was baptized, sharing that sacred moment with her three daughters, who were baptized alongside her. As she continued her spiritual journey, Karen later joined Shiloh Baptist Church of Chester under the leadership of Pastor E. Ervin Millsaps, where she continued to grow in faith and fellowship. In time, she returned to her spiritual home, Calvary Baptist Church, where her journey of faith first began. There, she remained a devoted and faithful member, serving joyfully in the usher ministry and worshipping within the church family that had shaped so much of her life. Karen received her education in the Chester-Upland School District and proudly graduated as a member of the Chester High School Class of 1968. Following graduation, she began her professional career at Crozer-Chester Medical Center, where she worked for a brief period before discovering her passion for service to others. Karen dedicated more than twenty years of faithful service to Elwyn Institute, where she worked with compassion and commitment, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she served. Throughout her career, she was known for her strong work ethic, warm spirit, and unwavering dedication to helping others. After her years of service at Elwyn, Karen retired and devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family. She found great joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren, and loved ones, offering her unwavering love, support, and presence. Her family was the center of her world, and she cherished every opportunity to create lasting memories with those she held dear. Karen adored the time she spent with her family and friends and was often the heart of every gathering. Known for her vibrant personality, she had a way of lighting up every room she entered. Whether at a family function, community event, church gathering, or simply out and about in Chester, it seemed that everyone knew Karen. While many recognized her as a proud member of the well-known Bost family, people were drawn to her because of who she was; gracious, loving, and genuine. She was known for her wisdom, sharp wit, honesty, and sincere advice that often left a lasting impression on those she loved. Often, after sharing words of guidance or encouragement, she would end the conversation with her signature phrase, “Trust me.” Those who knew her understood that when Karen spoke those words, you trusted her and held closely the wisdom she shared, which so often proved true. She had a passion for cooking and took great pride in preparing meals for family and friends. Her kitchen was a place of love, laughter, and comfort. Karen also enjoyed attending jazz concerts and live music events throughout the tri-state area, alongside her partner, Michael. Music brought her great joy, and she rarely missed an opportunity to dance. Karen could often be found on the dance floor, enjoying every song and dancing until the music stopped. Their shared love of music created many cherished memories and reflected her vibrant spirit and love for life. Karen was a passionate Philadelphia Eagles fan whose love for her team was well known. During football season, you could almost always find her dressed in Eagles green, proudly shouting “Go Birds!” prior to ending a conversation, or fully engaged in the game on television. Win or lose, she remained a loyal fan, and her enthusiasm made every game day more memorable for those around her. She lived her life as a faithful praiser on earth, and her walk reflected her deep love for God in both spirit and truth. To know her was to know joy, laughter, music, and unwavering faith. We take comfort in knowing that she has now transitioned to her heavenly home, where she is at peace in the presence of the Lord, dancing in glory, rejoicing, and praising God forevermore. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Avery Bost, Sr. and Esther Bost; and her siblings, Cynthia Washington, Ronald Bost, Rodney Bost, Sr., and Avery Bost, Jr. She leaves to cherish her memory: three daughters, Kywanna L. Bost, Dr. Kamika L. Bell, and Keia L. Bost, all of Delaware; four grandchildren, Ahtiya Waters (Nathan, IV), Keishon Bush, Kyle Downs, and Kalise Dyton; and one great-grandson, Nathan Waters, V. She is also survived by four sisters, Patricia Davis, Yvonne “Bunny” Bost, Teresa Bost, and Sherrye Bost; one brother, Roger Bost; a longtime partner, Michael Nowell; two godchildren, Alledra Pierce and Anthony Jackson; two special friends, Helen Green and Minister Laurease Dale; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Lovingly Shared by Her Family

Karen L. Bost

January 4, 1950 - June 1, 2026