Karen Calvert

Karen (Rice) Calvert, beloved mother, sister, veteran, and community leader, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2024, at the age of 73. Born on November 3, 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, Karen was the youngest child and only daughter of Odell Rice, a WWII U.S. Army veteran, and Evelyn June Rice. She grew up alongside her brothers, Alan Eugene Rice and the late Dennis Odell Rice, both Vietnam veterans. Karen’s life was marked by her service, dedication to her family, and commitment to numerous organizations. 

Karen’s love for her family was profound. She is survived by her three children: Timothy Daniel King (wife Virginia), Kristie Leigh Heiston (husband Aaron), and Briane Elizabeth Larkin (husband Jon). Her children followed in her footsteps of service, with her son Tim retiring as a U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant and her daughter Briane also serving in the Air Force, honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant. Karen was a cherished grandmother to her eight grandchildren: Kelly Lynn, Megan Danielle, Leigha Erin, Autumn Kristine, Caleb Nathaniel, Jasmine Elizabeth, Tristen Avery, and Emily Nicole, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

Karen’s education began at Pattonville Senior High School, where she graduated in 1969. She later earned two associate degrees in Human Resource Management from both the Community College of the Air Force and the University of Maryland University College, exemplifying her dedication to learning and professional growth.

Karen’s military journey began in June 1969 when she enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. Over the years, she served in various locations, from Okinawa and Plattsburgh Air Force Base to Whiteman and Homestead Air Force Bases. Known for her resilience, Karen survived Hurricane Camille while stationed at Keesler Air Force Base in 1969, which became an emblem of her indomitable spirit. She became a Personnel Superintendent and later retired with honors as Chief of Protocol, Senior Master Sergeant, in 1993. Among her numerous decorations, she received the Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Air Force Achievement Medal. Her achievements were further recognized when she was named the Air National Guard Outstanding Personnel Manager of the Year in 1987. The Pennsylvania Air National Guard also recognized Karen as an honorary Chief Senior Master Sergeant.

A natural athlete, Karen developed a passion for bowling during her time in Okinawa, representing the Strategic Air Command in tournaments. She was also an avid softball player and a key member of the Air National Guard championship team in 1986. After retiring from active military duty, she continued to serve the Air Force by supporting the Women in Military Service for America Memorial Foundation at the request of Brigadier General Wilma Vaught.

In later years, she worked with the Charles County Sheriff’s Office and later as Chief of Protocol at Joint Base Anacostia Bolling, a role that allowed her to support the Air Force Honor Guard and Band, causes that remained close to her heart.

Karen’s dedication extended well beyond her career. Karen was initiated into Bethel 40, International Order of Job’s Daughters, in Overland, Missouri, at a young age. Karen continued her involvement in Masonic organizations throughout her life. She held many leadership roles, including four terms as Worthy Matron of Unity Chapter No. 112, Order of the Eastern Star, in Camp Springs, Maryland, and eventually served as Worthy Grand Matron of Maryland in 2018- 2019. She remained active in the Masonic community, serving in various leadership positions and mentoring others.

She was a life member of several veteran organizations, including the American Legion and The Retired Enlisted Association. Karen also represented Maryland as Chair of the Commission to Establish a Maryland Women’s Veteran Memorial and served on the Maryland Veterans Commission. Her dedication to honoring veterans and advocating for their recognition left an indelible impact on her community.

Karen was baptized at Fee Fee Baptist Church in Bridgeton, Missouri, in 1962, a testament to her deep and abiding faith. Her life was a model of service, kindness, and strength, inspiring all who knew her. She will be remembered for her humor, her love of life, and her unyielding commitment to her country, her family, and her community.

Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and the countless lives she touched. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Military Women’s Memorial in Arlington, VA or Warrior Canine Connection in Boyds, MD. Services will be held at Lee Funeral Home in Clinton, Maryland on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Visitation will be at 10am followed by the funeral at 12pm. A military honors burial at Arlington National Cemetery will follow at a later date.