Karen Estelle Napotnik Toomy
Karen Estelle Napotnik Toomy, 82, of Waynesboro, Virginia, passed away on August 7, 2024. Born on September 26, 1941, in Richmond, Virginia, she was the beloved daughter of Leopold and Gertrude Estelle Berkebile Napotnik.
Karen graduated from Manchester High School in Richmond and earned her nursing diploma from the DePaul School of Nursing in Norfolk, Virginia. She dedicated her early career to serving as a Registered Nurse at the Medical College of Virginia, where she met her future husband, Dr. William Nicholas Toomy.
A member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Waynesboro, Karen's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was actively involved in her community and enjoyed skiing, playing tennis, participating in the Arts Club, various book clubs, and playing bridge. Karen was the first President of the Virginia Society for Human Life, and she was devoted to promoting the sanctity of human life from conception to death. Karen also held a pilot's license, showcasing her adventurous spirit.
Karen was a matriarch whose life revolved around her family, including her seven children, their spouses, and her nine grandchildren. She was happiest during family gatherings, especially during the holidays, which were vibrant and full of life. Her wisdom, love, and guidance were the pillars that supported her family.
She is survived by her children, Alexander MacMillan Toomy, Jennifer Hobbs Toomy (Dan), Matthew Brannelly Toomy, Justin Mayhew Toomy (Julie), Sister Mary Karen Toomy, Brannelly Toomy Batman (Tim), and William O'Connor Toomy. Her legacy also lives on through her grandchildren, Joshua MacMillan Toomy (Helen), Megan Richardson Toomy (Alba), Miranda Cil Toomy Smith (Brett), William Tice Toomy, Mary Gabrielle Toomy, Jacob Austin Toomy, Kathryn Grace Batman, Claire Elizabeth Batman, and Magdalene Grey Batman. Karen’s siblings, Mary Hobbs Napotnik Thompson, Mark Steven Napotnik (Susan), John Matthew Napotnik (Lois), and Stephen Paul Napotnik (Leah). She is also survived by many dear friends whom she considered family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband William Nicholas Toomy, her sister Judith Ann Napotnik Bennett, and her brother Leopold Frederick Napotnik.
The family will receive friends during a visitation on Tuesday, August 13, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at McDow Funeral Home, located at 1701 West Main Street, Waynesboro, Virginia. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 14, at 1:00 PM at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Waynesboro.
Karen’s life was a testament to love, family, and faith, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.