Karen Jean Pruitt

Karen Jean Pruitt, 77, of Mattoon, IL passed away at 9:24 P.M. on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at her residence.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at the Edwards Funeral Home, 221 East Main Street, Arcola, IL. A Remembrance service will be held at 5:00 P.M. on Wednesday, at the funeral home.

Karen was born April 7, 1948 in Charleston, IL. She was the daughter of Albert Daniel and Elizabeth (Ferguson) Cassiday. She married James Lovell Pruitt on February 14, 2001 in Las Vegas, NV.

Survivors include her husband, Jim Pruitt, and one son, Todd Boswell both of Mattoon, IL, three brothers, James Alvin Cassiday, Ronald Charles Cassiday, and Randy Lee Cassiday and his significant other, Brenda Powell all of Charleston; and her spoiled “fur baby” Bella.

She was preceded in death by her parents and an infant son, Joseph Lee Boswell.

Karen graduated from Charleston High School in 1966, and went on to work at GE, where she worked for 28 years before retiring in 1988. After retirement, Karen began a new chapter, she spent her days providing care and companionship to elderly individuals in their homes, offering them dignity, comfort, and the warmth of her presence.

Karen found joy in many things. She took great pride in her koi pond which was surrounded by her amazing flower garden, as well as tending to her vegetable garden. Dancing was another passion—an expression of the happiness and energy she carried with her throughout her life.

Karen was a blessing to everyone who knew her. Her kindness and generosity touched countless lives. Her son especially understood how fortunate he was to have a Mom who loved deeply and was loved by so many in return. Her legacy lives on in the people she cared for, the friends she cherished, and the family who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Memorials may be made to SBL Hospice or EARS- Effingham Animal Rescue Sanctuary.