On July 26 2026, Karolyn Kay Friday passed from this life to join her family who have gone before her. Karolyn was born to LeRoy and Cleo (Michelson) Friday in August 1951, joining her two older brothers, David and Wayne. She was a lifelong Tri-Cities resident, attending schools in Kennewick. After graduation from Columbia Basin College with an Associate’s Degree in computer programming, she obtained her undergraduate and Master's Degree from CWSU.

Karolyn had a long and successful career in various aspects of information technology. She began her career with ExxonMobil Nuclear and moved on to work for several of the Hanford site contractors.

Traveling was a lifelong passion. Starting when she was young, and throughout her adult life, there were many family trips camping, fishing and sightseeing. International travel came later. She visited Africa, Australia, Canada, China, Japan, New Zealand and South America. Photography was another hobby and her beautiful pictures allowed her family and friends to appreciate her adventures. As a breast cancer survivor, Karolyn was involved with the American Cancer Society by participating in, and later, coordination of Relay for Life and other fundraising events. Karolyn had a lifelong love of animals and over the years several cats shared her life. She established a not-for-profit feral cat rescue organization called Tri-Cities TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return) in 2018.

Karolyn leaves behind her brother, Wayne (Mary), nieces (Angela, Michelle, Tanya, Kris and Nikki), and several cousins.

There will be a gravesite service September 9th at 11 AM at Desert Lawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Tri-Cities TNR, Tri-Cities Chaplaincy, American Cancer Society or your preferred charity.