Karen Leigh (McCartney) Hanisak

January 18, 1956 – September 4, 2026

---

Karen Leigh (McCartney) Hanisak, age 70, was born in San Diego, California and passed away peacefully in her home in San Tan Valley, Arizona on Friday, September 4, 2026.

Karen graduated with her master’s degree from James Madison University, VA and over her career worked as both a paraprofessional and Special Education teacher. She worked for 20 plus years at Covington City Schools in Virginia and 10 plus years for the Florence Unified School District in Arizona.

Karen’s generous and loving heart was evident to everyone who knew her, both in and outside the classroom. She loved sewing and had a lifelong passion for collecting anything Snoopy-related. Her home was decorated in Peanuts themes inside and out, her outfits always featured Peanuts characters, and she even drove a Snoopy car. She delighted in wearing her Snoopy costume alongside her husband dressed as Charlie Brown. Karen also enjoyed traveling across the country to visit family, attend Peanuts conventions, and participate in Snoopy-themed events.

Karen’s passion for education shone through in her tireless work and volunteer efforts. She created engaging learning games, helped decorate classrooms for thematic units and seasonal celebrations, and collaborated with fellow teachers on lesson plans. She thoughtfully provided notebooks, pencils, and other supplies for students in need, remembering each child’s favorite snacks and bringing them for those who couldn’t bring their own. Whether grading papers, preparing materials for classroom parties, chaperoning field trips, or adding books to classroom libraries, Karen always looked for ways to help without being asked.

Her caring nature extended beyond the classroom as she made special goodie bags for children and ensured every child felt valued and supported in their learning journey. Karen’s legacy lives on in the countless children and teachers whose lives she touched through her unwavering dedication and selfless spirit. Her memory will continue to inspire others to approach life with the same compassion, creativity, and commitment to making every child’s educational experience meaningful.

Karen is preceded in death by her parents Kenneth Clarence and Pauline Elizabeth (nee Sterling) McCartney as well as her brother David McCartney.

Left to cherish her memory include her husband Joseph Hanisak of Arizona, daughter Amy (Joshua) Haynes of Virginia; grandchildren: Zachary and Bella Kraft, Amberlyn Haynes; siblings: Kevin (Kate) McCartney of Maine, Paul (Linda) McCartney of California, Kathleen (John) Ritter of Arizona; sister-in-law MaryAnn (Donald-deceased) Densler of Pennsylvannia; and two nephews.

The family wishes to thank all of Karen’s wonderful and loving friends from throughout the years for their support and condolences.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the following organizations are welcome:

Charles M. Shulz Museum at http://at https://schulzmuseum.org/get-involved/donations/ and Canine Companions at https://canine.org/donate-now/ .