Karen Jo Spitz

In Loving Memory of Karen Jo Spitz

Karen Jo Spitz, born October 5, 1959, passed away on October 24, 2026, in Claremore, Oklahoma, at the age of 67.

Karen was born in Clinton, Oklahoma, to Billy Joe Hallmark and Lillie Lee Halmark Eason. She attended high school in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, graduating in 1977. She later attended Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma before leaving her studies to join the United States Navy, beginning a new chapter of service and adventure in her life.

Karen met her husband, Timothy Pollard, in Tulsa while playing shuffleboard, a game that would remain one of her favorite pastimes throughout her life. The two built a life together and moved to Claremore in 2005, where they made their home.

Karen was known for being straightforward and telling it like it was. She believed in getting to the point and saying what she meant. She also had a natural talent for day trading, a skill that reflected her practical nature and ability to get things done.

Karen had a love for life, adventure, and making memories. She enjoyed playing shuffleboard, sailing, and traveling. A licensed operator of a 40-foot sailboat, she embraced the freedom and excitement of being out on the water. She loved exploring new places and spending time enjoying the things that made life special. Of all the holidays, Christmas held a particularly special place in her heart.

Karen's generous spirit extended beyond her own family. She cared deeply about her neighbors and their children, and she helped make Christmas special for families who were struggling financially. Neighbors would come together to purchase gifts for children whose parents could not afford them, helping ensure those children could experience the joy of the holiday season. This tradition reflected Karen's compassion and her desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Service and community were important parts of Karen's life. She was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Auxiliary, and a 20-year member of the American Legion. Through these organizations, she maintained her connection to fellow veterans and those who shared her commitment to service.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Billy Joe Hallmark and Lillie Lee Halmark Eason.

She is survived by her loving husband, Timothy Pollard; her son, Thomas Spitz; and her daughter-in-law, Ashley Spitz.

Karen will be remembered for her honest, no-nonsense personality, her love of adventure, her dedication to service, and her generous heart. Whether she was playing shuffleboard, sailing, traveling, or helping make Christmas brighter for children in her neighborhood, Karen lived life in her own way. Her love for her family and community, along with the memories she leaves behind, will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed.