Karen Sokolove Hamilton

Karen Sokolove Hamilton, 61, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026 at CaroMont Regional Medical Center, with her loving family by her side.

She was born on August 25, 1964 to Edith Arnold Sokolove and the late Stanley Sokolove. In addition to her father, she is preceded in death by her aunt, Pit Arnold; and father-in-law, Frank Hamilton.

Karen embraced an active and adventurous lifestyle. She loved spending time outdoors, staying fit, cooking and exploring new foods, and traveling to experience different cultures. Together, she and her husband, Loren, enjoyed hiking and kayaking, and they looked forward each week to working out with their close-knit gym family at Fit to Fight. Karen was always willing to try something new-even rock climbing, a passion of her son's. It came as no surprise that she successfully climbed to the top on her very first attempt.

Karen was blessed with several families, all of whom loved her deeply. Her devotion to her loved ones was constant and unwavering. She also treasured the friendships she built during her 31 years at Watson Insurance and through the many years she spent at Fit to Fight and through the weekly meetings with the Hungry Peeps group. In return, her four families-her family, her Watson family, her Fit to Fight family, and her Hungry Peeps family-were enriched by her zest for life, optimism, and genuine kindness.

Throughout her courageous battle with cancer, Karen continued to inspire everyone around her with her strength, resilience, and positive spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of love and countless cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 37 years, Loren Hamilton; son, Zachary Hamilton; mother, Edith Sokolove; sister, Monica Sokolove-Granholm (Axel); nieces, Mallory Sokolove, Miranda Parham, Lydia Granholm, and Emily Granholm; nephew, Nash Parham; mother-in-law, Betty S. Hamilton; sister-in-law, Leslie Parham (Randy).

The family will receive friends at Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home, from 5:00 until 7:00 pm. on Thursday, June 11, 2026. 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com