Karen Phillips Walston, 67-years-old, passed away peacefully, Tuesday February 12, 2013 with her daughters by her side. Karen was born on October 9, 1945 in Cleveland, Ohio to Robert and Gloria Phillips. She moved to Port Orange, Florida in the 1950's and considered herself a native Floridian. Karen was best known for her ease in frequent conversations with total strangers. Even as a child, she possessed a contagious smile and an entertaining sense of humor. She loved to have fun. On most days you could find her in an internet caf. When she was healthier, her favorite activity was going to the beach, dog track, and on the casino boat. Her children and grandchildren are what kept her going each day. Her signature gift of laughter, shown through joking around, will never be forgotten. After graduating from Mainland High School, she worked as a waitress all over the Daytona Beach Area. She loved people and waitressing was her passion. We always kidded her by saying she was the "best waitress in Volusia County!" She was married for 22 years to the late Kenny Walston. Their most memorable time was the tour in Germany with the Army. After retirement, they made their home in Port Orange. Karen is survived by her three children, Kelly (Mike) Nelson, Robin (Tony) Cowan and Terry (Sandi) Mason. She has left seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild whom she adored, Taylor and Kendall Cowan, Adam and Bailey Nelson, Michael, Terry, Justin and Aubrey Mason. She is also leaving behind her sister, Linda Shipman, nieces and nephews, her faithful buddy Ron Castle, best friend Renee Ellison and her favorite four-legged companion, Buddy. A celebration of her life will be held on Friday February 15, 2013 at 7:00 P.M at Cardwell Funeral Home, 3571 S. Ridgewood Ave, Port Orange Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Karen's name to your favorite charity. Condolences may be shared with her family at www.lohman funeralhomes.com.