The Niskayuna, New York, community is mourning the loss of Karen Marie Mills, who passed away peacefully on September 21, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, just days after celebrating her 60th birthday. Karen’s passing has left her husband, children, grandchildren, siblings, extended family, friends, and former colleagues grieving the loss of a woman remembered for her kindness, generosity, unwavering love for her family, and the genuine friendships she cultivated throughout her life. A Life Built on Family and Love Born on September 13, 1966, to George and Colleen Marcil, Karen was raised in Cohoes, New York, where she developed the values of compassion, loyalty, and family that remained central throughout her life. Family was always Karen’s greatest priority. She cherished every opportunity to gather with loved ones, especially during holidays. Christmas held a special place in her heart, as it allowed her to create lasting memories surrounded by those she loved most. She also found joy in traveling, shopping, and thoughtfully selecting gifts that reflected her generous spirit and the affection she had for family and friends. A Dedicated Career of Service Karen devoted 34 years of her professional life to the New York State Department of Labor, where she built a respected career while forming lasting friendships with coworkers. Those who worked alongside her remember Karen as someone whose kindness, optimism, and welcoming personality brightened the workplace. Her ability to make others feel appreciated and supported became one of the defining qualities of both her professional and personal life. Her years of service reflected not only dedication to her work but also a genuine commitment to the people around her. A Marriage Filled With Love Karen met Douglas Mills in 1984, beginning a love story that would span more than four decades. The couple married in 1989 and built a life grounded in love, friendship, and unwavering devotion. Together they created a home filled with laughter, support, and treasured family traditions. Doug remained faithfully by Karen’s side throughout her final days, a testament to the enduring bond they shared. A Proud Mother and Cherished Grandmother Karen’s greatest joy came from watching her family grow. She is survived by her beloved husband, Doug Mills; her daughters, Megan Paradiso and her husband, Joseph, and Samantha Mills Regan and her husband, Thomas. She was also the proud grandmother of Eleanor and Everett, whose lives brought her immeasurable happiness and countless cherished moments. Karen is further survived by her siblings, Joe and Staci, Kathy and Rich, and Colleen and Dan, along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended relatives, and lifelong friends who will forever treasure her memory. Remembering Karen Marie Mills Those closest to Karen remember her as someone who gave freely of herself, celebrated the accomplishments of others, and found joy in life’s everyday moments. Whether spending time with family, enjoying holiday traditions, traveling, or simply sharing time with friends, Karen approached life with warmth, compassion, and generosity. Her legacy lives on through the love she shared, the friendships she nurtured, and the countless lives she enriched over her 60 years. Funeral Services Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during calling hours on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Road, Glenville, New York. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Parish on Union Street. Interment will immediately follow at Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery in Niskayuna. A Lasting Legacy Although Karen Marie Mills’ passing leaves an immeasurable void, her legacy of kindness, faith, generosity, and unconditional love will continue through the family she cherished, the friendships she built, and the many lives she touched. She will be lovingly remembered as a devoted wife, caring mother, proud grandmother, dedicated public servant, and compassionate friend whose memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Information Disclaimer This article is based on obituary information released by Karen Marie Mills’ family. Readers are encouraged to refer to official family announcements and the funeral home for confirmed service details and any future memorial information. Post navigation Brooks Elise Walker Obituary, Denver, Colorado, Death: Beloved Adventurer, Sailor, and Friend Remembered After Unexpected Passing Julie Long Reported Car Accident: Family Requests Prayers Following Unconfirmed Death Reports