Karen Elizabeth Hexter

Karen Elizabeth Hexter (Johnson), beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on September 23, 2025, in Ocala, Florida.

Karen was born on January 22, 1955, in Tampa, Florida, to Constance “Connie” Bernadine Shannon Cavarozzi and Dewey Wilcox Johnson. As an “Air Force Brat,” she lived in many places during her youth, carrying with her both resilience and adaptability. In her younger years, she enjoyed swimming — a reflection of the determination she carried throughout her life.

She later settled in Ohio, where she built her life, family, and community. It was there she discovered her lifelong passion for animals — especially horses. For more than 30 years, she traveled the country showing Quarter Horses alongside her husband, Robert “Heck” Reade Hexter, and her daughter, Shannon, who proudly followed in her footsteps. These years brought joy, accomplishment, and lifelong friendships.

Professionally, Karen built a remarkable career in engineering. Her drive and brilliance led her to become a national engineering manager, a role that reflected her strong work ethic, loyalty, and leadership. After decades of success, she retired to Florida in 2012.

Though she was often described as stoic, those who truly knew her saw the warmth of her heart. She was a devoted wife, a wonderful mother, a supportive friend, and, in her later years, a proud and doting grandmother.

Karen carried her Ohio roots proudly, cheering on the Buckeyes with the same spirit she brought to every part of her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband, “Heck,” her mother, Constance, her father, Dewey and her beloved step-father Joseph Cavarozzi. She is survived by her daughter, Shannon Vilanova; her stepsons, Robert Hexter III and Steven Hexter; her grandson, Vinicius “Vinny” Vilanova Jr.; her brothers, Steven “Fuzzy” Johnson and Dewey Johnson Jr.; her sisters, Kathy Johnson and Jane Cavarozzi; and her best friend of nearly forty years, Cheryl Fuchs (Johnson).

Karen will be remembered for her strength, loyalty, and the deep love she carried for her family, animals, and friends. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched, and she will be deeply missed.