Karen Lay

January 28, 1959 – February 11, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Karen Lay on February 11, 2026, at the age of 67.

Karen was born January 28, 1959, in Indianapolis, and raised in Sheridan. A proud graduate of Westfield High School’s Class of 1977, she was well-known and well-loved as Little Miss Shamrock, the school’s spirited mascot.

In early adulthood, Karen moved to California, where she embraced a life of adventure. She made her first on screen appearance in Under the Rainbow and later achieved a cherished place in film history as an Ewok in Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. During her years in California, she also worked for the Internal Revenue Service.

After returning to Indiana, Karen built a career as a Customer Service Representative with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. She delighted in meeting people from all walks of life and was especially tickled when local celebrities came through her line – often exchanging autographs with them. Many people knew her simply as “the little person at the Nora License Branch,” a recognition that always brought a smile to her face.

Karen is survived by her sisters Debbie (Richard) Baugh, Michelle (Jim) Sexton, Donna Lay Proctor; her bonus sister, Becky Rushing; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rena and Lloyd Lay.

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 27, 2026, at Kercheval Funeral Home, 306 E. 10th St., Sheridan, with Pastor Chris Owens speaking at 6 p.m.

Condolences: kerchevalfuneralhome.com