Karen Lee Beckham, 61, of Mechanicsville, MD, died on April 28, 2011 at her home surrounded by her family after a long battle with Ovarian Cancer.

Born on April 1, 1950 in Philadelphia, PA, she was the daughter of the late James V. and Elizabeth J. Tipton Bonta. Karen has worked at Tidewater Veterinary Hospital since 1978 mostly recently in the capacity of Office Manager.

Survived by her husband, Aubrey Coleman Beckham, Jr., siblings, Peggy Brant (Art) of San Antonio, TX, Shirley Adkins (Skip) of Mechanicsville, MD, Jimmy Bonta of Kinley, NC, Gordon Bonta (Mary) of Wilson, NC, Wayne Bonta (Linda) of Woodbridge, VA, and Chuck Bonta (Ruthie) of Stafford, VA, sister in law Sue Beckham of Seabrook, MD, brother in law Jim Beckham (Liz) of Owings, MD, 17 nieces and nephews, 22 great nieces and nephews and a special canine companion, Nina.

Karen was a longtime member of Hughesville Baptist Church where she enjoyed her time as a member of the choir. Karen always surrounded herself with her animals, loved joining Aubrey on motorcycle rides and cherished the time with her nieces and nephews.

A Life Celebration will be held on Wednesday, May 4, 2011 from 5-8 p.m. at Brinsfield-Echols Funeral Home, P.A., 30195 Three Notch Rd., Charlotte Hall, MD 20622 and on Thursday, May 5, 2011 from 8-9 a.m. at Hughesville Baptist Church, 8505 Leonardtown Rd., Hughesville, MD where Funeral Services will follow at 9 a.m. Interment will follow at 11 a.m. at Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, MD.

Serving as pallbearers will be; Jimmy, Gordon, Wayne, and Chuck Bonta, Skip and Brian Adkins.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Cancer Care and Infusion Services, C/O St. Mary's Hospital, PO Box 527, Leonardtown, MD 20650.

Arrangements provided by Brinsfield-Echols Funeral Home, P.A.