Karen McBride

Karen McBride, loving mother and wife, passed away at the age of 62 on Tuesday, November 5th in Gastonia, NC surrounded by loved ones. She was preceded in death by her father Arnold Bearl and brother James Bearl. 

Karen devoted her life to her family and friends-truly the type who would give until she had no more to give. She worked as a pre-school aid at both St. Anne’s and St. Laurentius Catholic Schools in Philadelphia, PA where she was born and raised, until moving to be with her daughter and sister in North Carolina in 2020. She absolutely adored the children she had in her pre-K classes over 25 years. Karen would have been married for 34 years on November 16th, 2024. 

In her past time, Karen was known in her neighborhood for her sweet treats and homemade confections, and other than her love for working with children, was something she greatly enjoyed doing. Karen’s staples included hosting her family for feasts around her dining room table, laughing until you cried, and a never ending fountain of sweets and goodies. You never left Karen’s house hungry or empty handed. 

She is survived by her husband Robert McBride, daughter, Katie-Marie Morin (husband Jeremy Morin) her sister Kathy Nemeth, brother, Brian Bearl, mother Loretta Bearl, nieces Jessica Sarver and Amber Bearl, and nephews Timothy and Matthew Bearl. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in honor of Karen.

Services are being held privately by the family.