Karen Margaret Montazella
March 17, 1969 - January 13, 2026
Karen Margaret Montazella, age 56, of Middletown, DE, passed away on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
Born in New York City on March 17, 1969, she was a daughter of Barbara Louise (Wright) Montazella and the late Vincent Howard Montazella. Karen was a graduate of Clarkstown South High School in New City, NY. She then began working in hospitality and food service. After earning her Associates degree, Karen went to work for the Oceanside, CA school system. Moving from Oceanside, CA to Middletown, DE, she was hired by the State of Delaware for the Department of Labor as a financial analyst.
Karen enjoyed traveling and vegetable gardening. An avid reader, she was a member of two book clubs. Karen especially loved reading crime books as well as watching true crime TV shows. She was proud to be born and raised in New York and always considered herself a true New Yorker. Of all Karen’s passions, her family came first and she cherished the time they spent together.
Karen is survived by her mother, Barbara Montazella; siblings, Ellen O’Brien (Jack), Aleesa Jahn, Douglas Montazella (Gretchen), and Glen Montazella (Lori); aunt, Pat Wright; uncles, Martin Wright (Barbara) and Malcolm Wright; 10 nieces and nephews; 8 great-nieces and nephews; many cousins and dear friends; and her 4-legged companions, Odie and Binx.
A memorial service will begin at 3 pm on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at New Covenant Presbyterian Church, 1125 Jameson Corner Road, Middletown, DE. A reception for family and friends will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Karen’s memory to the Brandywine Valley SPCA, 290 Churchmans Road, New Castle, DE 19720 or online by clicking here; or to Our Daily Bread, P.O. Box, 945, Middletown, DE 19709 or online by clicking here.
Paula Seeney
Very nice co-worker…she’ll be missed.
Keith
I’m so sorry for your loss. Karen was a wonderful teammate.
Wanda Silva
“My deepest condolences to the family. Karen was a wonderful coworker and a truly authentic, positive friend. I will deeply miss her, our chats, and all the laughter we shared. Rest in peace, my friend.”
Carolyn Nasser
It’s hard to put into words the sadness we feel at the loss of such a wonderful colleague and friend. Karen brought light and laughter into every room she entered. She had a way of making everyone feel heard, valued, and at ease — her kindness and warmth were truly unmatched.
Whether it was a quick chat in the hallway or a shared laugh during a busy day, she made work feel a little brighter. Her genuine spirit and easygoing nature left a lasting impression on all of us, and her absence will be deeply felt.
We are grateful for the time we had with her and will carry her memory with us always. Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Carolyn Nasser
Michelle Cohen
I am so sorry, but she rest in peace. So very sad.
Judy Traugott
So sorry for your loss.
Richard Shrout
I will always miss you and my you rest in Peace. I have loved you since you were a little girl. Always helpful and willing to tell me when I was wrong. A great loss to us all.
Pam Barraclough
I was so sad to hear of the passing of Karen. She was such a beautiful soul who could light up a room with just her smile. She is truly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends during this most difficult time.