Karnita was born on February 14, 1975, in Los Angeles to parents Charles and Marsha Underwood. She grew up in the vibrant neighborhoods of South LA, where she was known for her kindness, quick wit, and unwavering loyalty to her family and friends. From an early age, Karnita had a deep love for the arts, particularly theater and music, and she pursued those passions throughout her life. She graduated from Loyola Marymount University with a degree in Communications and began her career as an advocate for local communities, leveraging her skills in media and outreach to uplift voices often unheard.
Death- Obituary of Karnita Underwood: Los Angeles, California.
Karnita’s professional life was marked by her dedication to social justice and community empowerment. As a communications strategist, she worked with various non-profit organizations to address issues such as homelessness, youth empowerment, and racial equity. Her work took her to different parts of the country, but her roots remained firmly planted in Los Angeles, where she made a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of working with her.
Her greatest joy in life was being a mother to her two children, Elijah and Maya. Karnita poured all her love and energy into raising them with the same values of compassion, resilience, and kindness that she lived by. She was a proud and fiercely protective mother, always advocating for her children’s education and well-being, and her home was a welcoming haven to friends, family, and anyone in need of support.
In addition to her career and family, Karnita was an active member of the local community, frequently volunteering her time with organizations that aimed to make Los Angeles a more inclusive and equitable city. She was a passionate advocate for affordable housing, economic opportunities for marginalized communities, and mental health awareness. Karnita also loved to host gatherings—whether it was a neighborhood block party, a family dinner, or a fundraiser for a local cause—she was always the life of the party, ensuring everyone felt seen and valued.
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Karnita’s laughter was contagious, and her smile could light up even the darkest rooms. Her ability to connect with people was a testament to her deep empathy and genuine interest in others’ lives. She had an uncanny ability to make people feel special and listened to, whether they were a lifelong friend or a new acquaintance. Many will remember her for her thoughtful conversations, her fierce determination to fight for what’s right, and her ability to bring joy to those around her.
Those who knew Karnita also knew she had an adventurous spirit. Whether she was hiking through the mountains, traveling to new destinations, or simply exploring the hidden gems of Los Angeles, she had a zest for life that was infectious. She loved nature, finding peace and solace in the beauty of the world around her, often spending weekends at local parks or along the beaches of Santa Monica with her family.
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Karnita’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched. Her children, Elijah and Maya, are a testament to her loving guidance, and they will continue to honor her memory by carrying forward the lessons she instilled in them. She is also survived by her mother, Marsha Underwood; her brother, Tyrone Underwood; her close-knit circle of friends; and a network of colleagues and community members who will forever be grateful for her contributions.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at St. John’s Hospital who cared for Karnita during her final days. Their compassion and professionalism were a great comfort to her and her loved ones.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Karnita’s honor on November 10, 2024, at 2:00 PM at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Family, friends, and all who knew Karnita are invited to join in remembering her vibrant life and the countless ways she made the world a better place.
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In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Karnita’s name to The LA Youth Empowerment Fund, an organization she supported throughout her life, which helps provide educational resources and mentorship opportunities to at-risk youth in Los Angeles.
Though Karnita is no longer with us, her spirit will continue to inspire all those who knew her. She was a true force for good in this world, and her memory will forever be a source of strength, love, and hope to those she leaves behind.
“You have touched the hearts of many. We will carry your love in our hearts forever.”
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