Karen Lynn Diaz-Green

Karen Lynn Diaz-Green of Amarillo tragically passed away on Tuesday, March 26, 2019. Her family is devastated, but would like her to be remembered fondly by all. Family and friends will celebrate her life at 10:30 am Saturday, March 30, 2019 in LaGrone Blackburn Shaw Coulter Road Chapel with Rev Nell Newton officiating. Arrangements are under the personal care of LaGrone Blackburn Shaw Funeral Directors, 8310 S. Coulter Road.

Karen was born in Amarillo on October 11 of 1958, to Jose and Jessie Lira. She was adopted at the age of four by her aunt and uncle, Tom and Ruby Noblett of Little Rock, Arkansas. There, she grew up with her two younger sisters, Cindy and Emmie. In 1976, Karen gave birth to her daughter, Miranda, and moved back to Amarillo. Upon returning, she was able rekindle a relationship with her biological parents, and her two younger brothers, Mark and Cecil Lira.  In 1974, Karen married Rito Diaz, and together they raised Miranda. In 1994, Karen and Rito divorced, and Karen was blessed with a granddaughter, Codi. Karen worked very hard for many years at Levi Strauss as a mechanic. When Levi closed down, in 1996, Karen married Larry Green of Amarillo, and together they took in Codi, whom they eventually adopted in 2006.

Karen made the decision to go back to school. She began by earning her associates degree in photography. This experience sparked her love for education. Karen went on to earn her Bachelor and Master Degrees in Social work from West Texas A&M University. For the past 16 years, she has dedicated her life and time to the children and families of the panhandle as a Kinship Specialist for the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Karen is survived by her husband, Larry Green, her daughter and son in law, Codi and Eric Porter, her brother Mark Lira and his wife Llara Lira. Not to mention many cousins, nieces and nephews in Arkansas and across the country.

Karen loved life and cared a great deal for her daughter and her “fur-babies”. She made a huge impact on many children and families through her job as a Social Worker. She also brought joy and love into all that she encountered. Karen will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that friends consider making a contribution to the Amarillo S.P.C.A at 11901 S. Coulter, or the Amarillo-Panhandle Humane Society at 3501 S. Osage St.