Karla G. Hesketh

Karla G. Hesketh (née Sponaugle), 82, of Johnson City, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025. She was born on May 8, 1943, in Redwood Falls, Minnesota, and was raised in Marshall, Minnesota, by her parents, Elsie and Clark, along with her older sister, Darlene, and her younger brother, Gary, all of whom preceded her in death.

Karla lived in Minnesota, California, and Texas—and even in Buenos Aires, Argentina, for a time—before she and Peter eventually retired to Tennessee. Known for her warmth, sense of humor, gentle spirit, notable organizational skills, liberal views, and kindness, she approached life with care and generosity. She had a special gift for staying connected with loved ones, and her love of animals, especially puppies, was one of her defining joys.

Here in Johnson City, Karla was a member of the Women’s Club and previously the Newcomers’ Club, where she formed many cherished friendships and she was a terrific Mahjong player, playing with a local club for years. She and her husband, Peter, devoted countless hours to fostering puppies for the Brother Wolf animal charity, an act of compassion that touched lives far beyond their home.

She is survived by Peter Hesketh, her husband of 36 years; her daughters, Jana Leon and Amelia (“Amy”) Webster; her son-in-law, Jimmy Hormel; her grandchildren, Kai, Stella, Theo, Keir, and Flora; her sister-in-law, Nancy Sponaugle; her nieces and nephews; and her furry, faithful companion, Mr. Harry.

Above all, Karla will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend whose steady presence was felt in lasting ways. She will be profoundly missed.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Karla’s memory may be made to Brother Wolf Animal Rescue.