Karen O'Brien Lenois, 79, loving and devoted wife of 53 years to Robert G. Lenois, Sr. of North Haven, and loving mother of three, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at Yale-New Haven Hospital on March 1, 2023. Born in New Haven on April 28, 1943, she was the oldest daughter of the late John and Margaret O'Brien.
Karen was a devoted educator to those with special needs, first earning her Associate's degree and later completing her Bachelor's and Master's degrees after raising her children. A devout Catholic, she served as a Eucharistic Minister at St. Rita Church and was a dedicated member of the Columbiettes, as well as the Catholic Charity League. Karen was also a devoted volunteer at the Columbus House in New Haven. Karen led a humble life in service of others and in dedication to her community. This drew praise and distinction from the Archbishop, the City of New Haven's Office of the Mayor, the Knights of Columbus, and Columbus House.
In addition to her husband Robert, she is survived by her three children, Robert G. Lenois, Jr. (Jamie) of Larchmont, NY, Danielle M. Lenois of New York City, and Paul A. Lenois (Ashley) of Branford; her four grandchildren, Julia Rose and Emma Josephine Lenois, and Dylan James and Theodore James Lenois; and her siblings Regina Thomas (Frank) of Haverford, PA, Mark O'Brien (Barbara) of West Palm Beach, FL, and Philip O'Brien (Lisa) of Raleigh, NC. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews and numerous dear friends. She was predeceased by her faithful and loving canine companion of sixteen years, KaiLee.
Friends and relatives are invited to visit with Karen's family on Friday, March 10th from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at Beecher & Bennett, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden, and may attend her Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, March 11th at 10:00 a.m. in St. Paul VI Parish/St. Rita Church, 1620 Whitney Ave., Hamden. The burial will be private. Memorial contributions can be made in her name to Columbus House , New Haven, CT. All donations will go to the Karen Lenois Community Service Fund.