Karla Beale Obituary

Karla Rena' Beale of Kilmarnock, VA passed away peacefully at her home on May 26, 2025.
Karla was born on April 12. 1966, to Doris Vernell Jones Thornton and Bernard Thornton as the youngest of their three children and was called home on Memorial Day. May 26. 2025. She was a beloved wife. mother. friend. church and community leader as well as a voice of reason, known for her caring heart, insightful advice and undying love of the Washington Redskins.
In her early years. Karla showed a love of playing outside with her brothers and friends, and as she grew she quickly became known both for her love of the church and for being an avid reader. In her personal life, Karla was a loving wife to her husband, Claude Maurice Beale, a caring and passionate mother to her son, Justin Myrone Gammon, and an amazing friend and confidant to Shalanda Nicole Rhodes, as well as countless others. She had a passion for trying new things, going to new places and meeting new people, and her enthusiasm was infectious. Karla often found solace in happiness with her faithful chocolate lab, Festus. Yes. Festus from Gunsmoke.
Karla's journey continued as she pursued her education first at Hampton University, then at Southwestern University. as well as the University of Phoenix. She excelled in business management, trust and estate planning and investment man-agement. She worked primarily for non-profit organizations like United Way of San Diego and Truist. When she returned to the Northern Neck she found her professional home with Chesapeake Wealth Management. Her dedication and work ethic were evident to everyone who knew her.
One of Karla's greatest passions was her service in the Marine Corps. She found purpose and joy in helping children, often being an advocate for the most disadvantaged. She was also a dedicated member of both her church and local community, always ready to lend a helping hand or empathetic leadership. "What can I do to help?" was a phrase most who came to her would know her by. She was elected as president of the board of the Kilmarnock Boys and Girls Club, a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) where she worked closely with al-risk children and their families. and her impact was felt by many.
Karla's legacy will continue to shine brightly through her, accomplishments, contributions, and impact on her family and community. Her genuine, warm-hearted demeanor left an indelible mark on all those who was blessed to know her. She touched our lives in an innumerable amount of profound ways and the many lessons she taught us will continue to guide us in the future.
Karla was a remarkable woman of God who brought light and love into our lives. As she would often say, she has well and truly lived her life. She is survived by her devoted husband,Claude Beale, her one and only son, Justin Gammon. as well as her two brothers, Bernard Thornton (Diana) and Victor Thornton (Natalie), as well as nieces, nephews, and a multitude of biological and adopted family (Her doll babies). Her memory will live on forever in our hearts, and we are grateful for the time we had with her. As we go forward, let us honor Karla's life by embodying her values and the love she shared with us.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 12:00 Noon at the Sharon Baptist Church, 1413 Lumberlost Rd, Weems, VA 22576. Pastor Dale Bunns, Pastor, Eulogist. Rev. Kim Bunns, Officiating.