Karen Bright Cline

Karen Bright Cline, 75, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on Oct. 9, 1949, in Chattanooga, Karen was raised in the Battery Heights neighborhood. She shared her early years with close childhood friends Peggy Standefer and Jane Leonard and always felt at home in the warmth of the Leonard family.

A proud graduate of Central High School’s Class of 1967, Karen went on to attend business school in downtown Chattanooga. She worked as an executive secretary, demonstrating diligence, poise, and professionalism throughout her working life.

Karen’s life took her abroad for a time, living in Germany where her first child was born. After returning to Chattanooga, she welcomed her second child and continued to build a life full of love and laughter. She married Jerry Cline in 1982 and was his devoted wife for over 42 years. Karen and Jerry were members of the Pairs and Spares Sunday School Class at Burks United Methodist Church in Hixson.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Stephen L. Bright and Lillie Whittenburg Bright, as well as Arthur C. Kamin and Clara Bright Kamin—her beloved aunt and uncle who lovingly helped raise her following the early loss of her mother. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Kristen Tawater Jones, whose life was tragically cut short in 2024.

Karen is survived by her adoring husband Jerry W. Cline who served as her primary caregiver as her health declined. She is also survived by her loving son, Shawn Tawater; and step-sons Doug (Shannon) Cline, Mike (Von) Cline, and Scott (Lynne) Cline. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Trent (Crystal) Scott, Trace (Elizabeth) Cline, Taylor (Amy) Cline, Elizabeth (Elijah) Grimm, Emily (Brandon) White, Ben (Bethany) Cline, Delaney Cline, and Annalee Cline; as well as 12 great-grandchildren who brought her great joy.

Karen always demonstrated optimism no matter her circumstances. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a loyal and generous friend. She delighted in reading, traveling, boating, crocheting, and basking in the sun at the beach. One of her favorite past times was drinking coffee with her husband Jerry on their boat or looking out their window. She had a special passion for shopping and was always up for a game, whether at family gatherings or with friends. Her infectious laugh could light up a room, and her warmth drew people in effortlessly. Karen loved deeply and hosted countless family get-togethers, creating treasured memories for all who knew her.

She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, joy, resilience, and unwavering love. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, June 26, from 4-7:30 p.m. and continue on Friday, June 27, from 10-11 a.m. at Hamilton Funeral Home.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, June 27, at 11 a.m. in the chapel with burial to follow at Greenwood Cemetery.

Pall bearers will be Mike Cline, Scott Cline, Ben Cline, Trent Scott, Trace Cline, and Taylor Cline.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude’s or Burks United Methodist Church:

Memorial Giving, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tn. 38105 or Burks United Methodist Church, 6433 Hixson Pike, Hixson, Tn. 37343.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hamilton Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson, Tn. 37343, 423 531-3975.

Please visit https://www.hamiltonfhofchattanooga.com/obituary/karen-cline to share your memories or condolences with the family.