Karen P. Justus, a cherished member of the Dallas community, passed away on September 17, 2025, in Maryland at the age of 78. Born in Nanticoke, she was the daughter of the late Sheldon and Margaret Masters Lawrence. A graduate of Newport Township High School, Class of 1964, Karen spent the last two years of her life in Aberdeen, Maryland, where she was close to her daughter and grandchildren.
Throughout her life, Karen was deeply involved in her community and faith. She was a dedicated member of the Dallas United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday School and participated in the Tuesday Quilting group, as well as the Sister’s Circle. Her commitment to her classmates was evident in her active participation in the reunion group for the Class of ’64.
In her professional career, Karen served as a cashier for Weis Markets and worked at various institutions, including Stopay Candies and the VA Credit Union. These roles reflected her strong work ethic and dedication to service.
Karen was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Justus, who passed away in 1999, and her brother, Sheldon Lawrence. She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Justus, and her husband, Dan Rusin, from Aberdeen, Maryland. Her son, Kristopher Justus, and his wife, Kelly, reside in Lovettsville, Virginia. Karen also leaves behind her sister, Pamela Paprota, her sister-in-law, Debbie Lawrence, and her brothers-in-law, Leonard and Doug Justus. In addition, she is remembered by four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.
The funeral service for Karen P. Justus will take place on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 12:00 PM from The Richard H. Disque Funeral Home, Inc., located at 2940 Memorial Highway, Dallas, PA 18612. Friends and family are invited to call from 11:00 AM until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making donations to the Dallas United Methodist Church, c/o 4 Parsonage Street, Dallas, PA 18612. Online condolences may be expressed at Disquefuneralhome.com.
Karen P. Justus will be remembered for her warmth, her dedication to family and community, and her unwavering faith.
