Karon Daniel Elder was born on September 1, 1942 in Corsicana, Texas. She died on January 27, 2026 in Longview Texas, with family by her side.

Karon's early life began in Fairfield as the first child of her mother Ruth and father Odell. When Karon was a few months old, her father was thrown from a horse and died. The heart-breaking tragedy forever changed the trajectory of her life, but her extended family provided much needed support. She spent many happy childhood days with her parents' family members in Fairfield TX, playing in her uncle's cotton gin, riding all over town in a horse-drawn buggy with cousin Bobby, learning to cook with her Aunt Reny, and riding a tractor with her Uncle Sonny.

After her mother remarried, the family eventually relocated to Kilgore. Karon made life-long friends attending Kilgore schools and Kilgore Jr. College. Many other special friendships developed through Karon's participation in the First Assembly of God Church, pastored by her uncle, the Rev N. K. Bigham. Karon played the piano at the church.

Karon was employed as a bookkeeper for an oilfield drilling company and later employed by the Kilgore ISD Administration Department. Karon’s final employment was with West Rusk ISD. She grew to love everyone at West Rusk and remained a loyal supporter and sports fan even after retiring. Karon was a good Kilgore citizen, working with "Turn-Around-Kilgore" and Habitat for Humanity.

Family was Karon's focus and together with her husband Buddy she raised 3 children. She was a fabulous homemaker and cook. They worked hard to provide their children with a strong home base and loving environment. Karon's love for family extended to her niece Angie who considers Karon a second mother. Karon moved her aunt Reny and uncle Sonny to Kilgore so that she could help with Reny's care. There were many other friends who depended on her help and guidance throughout the years.

Karon is survived by her daughter Cheree (Robb) Hudspeth, daughter Camille (Melvin) Franklin, son John P. Elder, grandchildren Ian Hudspeth, Sydney Franklin, Kennedy Franklin and Truman Franklin, sister Gwen Medaris Zoucha, niece Angie (Mike) Ritenour, and great-nephew Austin Hogue.

Karon was preceded in death by her husband John S. "Buddy" Elder, and her parents Gilbert

Odell Daniel and Ruth Stalcup Medaris

A memorial service to celebrate Karon's remarkable life will be held at Rader Funeral Home in Kilgore Monday, February 9 at 11:00 AM. Her family asks that you consider donating to Hiway 80 Rescue Mission in lieu of flowers.  All who knew and loved Karon are welcomed to join in honoring her memory. Karon Elder's impact on the lives of those she loved will live on, reminding all of us to cherish our families and keep in touch with those we hold dear.