Karen Frances Brillante Polk, 64, of DeLeon Springs, Florida, peacefully entered the arms of her Lord and Savior on Saturday, October 24, 2026, following a courageous and unwavering battle with glioblastoma. In her final moments, she was surrounded by the love of her family and dearest friends, held close by those who had walked beside her throughout her beautiful life.

Born on July 7, 1962, to George and Marilyn Brillante, Karen was raised in DeLand, Florida, a community deeply woven into the story of her life. She attended Stetson University and went on to build a career with the Florida State Park System, where her dedication, intelligence, and strong work ethic were evident throughout her years of service.

Karen possessed a rare combination of beauty, grace, intelligence, and quiet strength. Always poised and effortlessly elegant, she carried herself with a timeless sense of style and an unmistakable warmth. Beneath her graceful exterior was a wonderfully witty spirit, a playful sense of humor, and a heart devoted to the people she loved. She had an appreciation for life's beautiful details, a love for horses, and a way of making even the simplest moments memorable.

Above all, Karen's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and an adoring grandmother whose love knew no bounds. She was fiercely protective of those she held dear, steadfast in her devotion, and unwavering in her support. Her love was constant, her presence reassuring, and her influence immeasurable. The values she lived by—faith, family, hard work, and grace—will continue through the generations she leaves behind.

Throughout her illness, Karen demonstrated extraordinary courage, dignity, and perseverance. She faced each challenge with the same quiet strength that defined her life, surrounded by a family whose love for her never wavered. Though her journey was difficult, her spirit remained a testament to the remarkable woman she was. Her family finds comfort in knowing that her suffering has ended and that she is now whole, at peace, and resting in the presence of her Savior.

Karen is survived by her loving husband, Brian Polk; her daughter, Kaley Brillante Zuniga, and son-in-law, Henry Zuniga; and her cherished grandchildren, Mylin Zuniga, Kirland “Beau” Zuniga, and Scout Lee Zuniga. She is also survived by her sisters, Paula Brillante and Patti O'Brien (Kevin); her nieces, Jenna Mamele and Georgia Hodges; and her nephew, Michael O'Brien.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, George and Marilyn Brillante.

A funeral service celebrating Karen's beautiful life will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in DeLand, Florida, with a reception to follow.

In keeping with Karen's wishes, guests are kindly asked to refrain from wearing black. Instead, she wanted those gathering in her memory to wear something bright and cheerful—or, in her own words, “your favorite outfit.” A fitting tribute to a woman who appreciated beauty, individuality, and the joy found in life's simplest pleasures.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Patient Assistance Program at UF Health, in gratitude for the compassionate care and support provided throughout Karen's journey.

Donations may be mailed to:

UF Health Shands Attn: Brigette Coleman, MSW, LCSW, CCTP Patient Assistance Program P.O. Box 100306 Gainesville, FL 32610-0306

Karen's legacy is one of extraordinary love, enduring faith, and timeless grace. She will be remembered not only for the beauty with which she carried herself, but for the beautiful life she created for those fortunate enough to know and love her.

Forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.