Karen Judith Derx

April 6, 1941 - July 11, 2026

Karen Judith Derx, 85, of Scio NY, passed away peacefully with both of her daughters by her side on Saturday, July 11 at Maple Downs Assisted Living in Fayetteville, NY.

Born April 6, 1941, in Hornell, New York, Karen's youth involved moving to various locations as her stepfather was in the military. Their travels took her to Japan, Oklahoma, and then back to Angelica where she graduated from Angelica Central School in 1960. From her youth, Karen loved being active and especially enjoyed anything involving music. She would often be the one to drag people out on the dance floor at school dances. Another passion was she loved singing and was incredibly involved in her school chorus.

Karen lived most of her adult life in Scio, where she built a life filled with family, friendship, work, laughter, and community. During her early years in Scio, she played in summer softball leagues, where she picked up the affectionate nickname "Ma Derx." She worked at Mater Dei Assisted Living Home from 1976 to 1981 as a caregiver to the seniors living at the facility with great care and kindness. It was when her children started getting involved in school activities that she decided she did not want to miss a single function that she began working at Scio Central School from 1981 to 2000.

Karen had a gift for bringing people together. She loved hosting at home either after softball games, or bridge parties in the 1970s and sports boosters' meetings in the 1980s. Her home was a welcoming place where friends, neighbors, and family could gather, laugh, and feel included.

Karen was also known for providing steady guidance and encouragement to the youth in school and throughout the community. She always had a willing ear and shoulder for many students and staff who would go to her during school hours to seek comfort and guidance. The Ma Derx moniker carried well into her lifetime as she often found students in school and her daughters friends call her that as well.

Many Scio athletes will remember Karen as the bus driver everyone hoped to have for sporting events. She was always willing to stop at McDonald's, Burger King, or Friendly's after games, much to the players' delight.

Karen will always be remembered for her warmth, her generous spirit, her love of music and friendship, and the many ways she made life brighter for those around her.

Predeceased by her father Robert Corsaw, her mother Georgia Morton Grastorf, stepfather Harold Grastorf, and brother Michael Grastorf. Survived by her daughters, Kimberly Derx of Syracuse NY, and Christine (Garrett) Moll of Fabius NY; and her beloved grandchildren, Makenna and Kinsey Moll both who reside in the Rochester NY area. Her brother Steven (Shiela) Grastorf niece Amber (Mark) Christensen and nephew Darrin (Sarah) Grastorf all who reside in Angelica NY. Great nephews and niece Carter, Jacob, Kylee Christensen, and Cooper Grastorf.

A celebration of Karen's life will be held at Brown & Powers Funeral Home in Angelica, New York, on September 12, 2026, callling hours from 10:00 AM to noon, and funeral service at noon. There will be a celebration of life luncheon for those attending service at the Angelica House and Hotel immediately following service.

In lieu of flowers please send donations in Karen's honor to Dementia Society of America www.dementiasociety.org/donate or the Humane Society www.humanesocietyny.org/donate