Karen Miracle Torez

Karen Miracle Torez, age 73, of Middlesboro, KY, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 1st, 2026, at the University of Kentucky Medical Center, Lexington, KY. She was born in Harlan, KY, on December 3rd, 1952, to William Siler Miracle and Zella Partin Miracle, who preceded her in death.

Karen was baptized and raised in the Baptist faith. Her relationship with God was the foundation of her life. She trusted in the Lord through every season and found strength, comfort, and hope in His promises. She is now at peace in the presence of her Lord and Savior, whom she faithfully loved and trusted throughout her life.

Karen taught Special Education in the Middlesboro Independent School System, Middlesboro, KY, for 27 years. She not only taught many students during her career, but also served as a Special Olympics Coach taking athletes all over the state of Kentucky. She represented the teachers of Middlesboro Independent Schools by serving as The Middlesboro Education Association President and attended meetings at the Upper Cumberland Education Association and Kentucky Education Association throughout her teaching career. She was a dedicated fan of the University of Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team. She was an exceptional cook and baker and enjoyed preparing food for family and friends. Her gift for interior design, created a warm and beautiful home where everyone felt welcome. She had a kind and gentle spirit and lived her life offering kindness to anyone in need.

One of Karen's greatest joys was being a grandmother to her beloved granddaughters, Isabella and Annabella Copher. She treasured them dearly and was grateful for the love and special memories they shared.

In addition to her parents, Karen was preceded in death by an infant sister.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Carmella Torez (Lexington, KY); granddaughters, Isabella Copher and Annabella Copher (Glasgow, KY) and their parents, Connie and William Copher (Glasgow, KY); sister, Jo Ann Spurlock (Lexington, KY); nieces, Paige Spurlock (Lexington, KY), Elizabeth Spurlock (Cory Moberly), (Lexington, KY); and great-nephew, Dorian Stephens (Lexington, KY) as well as a host of family and friends, who were loved like family. 

The family of Karen Torez will receive friends on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Cawood Funeral Home Chapel, Middlesboro, KY. A memorial service will follow at 4:00 p.m. with Reverend Kevin Turner presiding. Music will be provided by Thomasa Risner.  

Online register book and condolences are available at www.cawoodfh.com.

All arrangements for Karen Miracle Torez are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home, Middlesboro, KY.