Karen "KJ" Backman-Barrett's Obituary
Karen “KJ” Backman-Barrett, 60 of Marysville, WA and Culpeper VA was lifted to heaven by the Lord on Friday, March 13, 2026. She was surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with cancer.
Karen is survived by her life partner John, lovely daughter, Alanna Mohr Barrett, her four-legged child, Chippy, her sister, Jeni Ford of Arizona, as well as numerous relatives and friends that will miss her dearly.
Karen was preceded in death by her father Bryce J. Backman Sr. and his wife Lavern, of Arizona, her mother, Phyllis S. Backman, and her sister, Susan Backman Hudgens, of Stanwood WA.
Born October 6, 1965, KJ initially met her “Guy” John in 1992, and reunited in 2001, entrusted her feelings and love with him forever as noted in the song “I Will” by the Beatles. She instilled in Alanna to be independent, the will and desire to work hard, know herself and as a song would say, be the “Best of You” in life. KJ was a “Special Angel” and known for her calm demeanor, intelligence, unwavering strength, adventure, and the ability to organize, especially bringing friends and family together.
In honor of Karen’s life, a gathering of remembrance will be held from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, 850 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, where a service will begin at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations in Karen’s honor to Hospice of the Piedmont, online at https://hopva.org/give, or mailed to: Hospice of the Piedmont, Attn: Development Office 675 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 300 Charlottesville, VA 22911 or to the Karen J. Barrett-Backman In Memorium Bench fund,
https://culpeperschoolsva.schoolcashonline.com/Fee/Details/3129/469/False/True
What’s your fondest memory of Karen?
What’s a lesson you learned from Karen?
Share a story where Karen's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Karen you’ll never forget.
How did Karen make you smile?