Karen Barnes Tyler, of Wallingford, departed this life on Thursday, July 22, 2010. She was the loving wife of Timothy A. Tyler. Karen was born on September 18, 1945, in Meriden, CT, a daughter of the late Elwood and Leah (Hoffman) Barnes. She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Wallingford. She was a graduate of Southern Connecticut State College with a degree in early childhood education and taught full time for one year in Tolland, CT and substituted for many years in Wallingford. Prior to retirement, she was employed by the United States Postal Service as a letter carrier for over twenty years. She coached youth girls softball and played in the Womens Wallingford Softball League for many years. For the last three years she served as a leader for Yalesville Brownie Troop GSA 60264. Throughout her life she participated in many civic and social activities. Above all else, she brought comfort and joy to her family and friends. In addition to her husband, she will be sadly missed by her sons: Jesse T. Tyler and wife Sharon and Matthew A.E. Tyler and Tracy of Wallingford; her brother Walter E. Barnes and wife Vicky of Wallingford; a sister, Jane Barnes of Meriden; a brother-in-law, David Tyler and wife Lisa of Wallingford; her loving grandchildren: James, Lillian, Zoe and Zachary Tyler; and several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may call on Monday, July 26, 2010 at B.C. Bailey Funeral Home, 273 South Elm Street, Wallingford from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at 10:30 AM at the First United Methodist Church of Wallingford, 941 Old Rock Hill Rd., Wallingford. Memorial contributions may be directed to the First United Methodist Church. To leave a message of hope and remembrance or for directions please visit www.BCBailey.com.