Friends of community leader Karen Sock remember her life and legacy

GULFPORT, Miss. (WXXV)-  South Mississippi is mourning the loss of a beloved community leader and former casino executive.

Karen Sock passed away on Wednesday. Now, those who knew her are looking back on her life, legacy, and the lasting impact she leaves here in South Mississippi.

Whether you met her through her career as a gaming executive or through her work for Pathways2Possibilities, many say they feel gratitude for having known her.

Paige Roberts founded Pathways2Possibilities with Sock.

“What a gift, what a gift, what a huge, huge gift Karen has been to all the Gulf Coast and Mississippi and the lives she’s touched through the eighth graders in South Carolina and in Tennessee,” she said.

Roberts says her favorite memories with Sock were in the car. She says the pair drove around the entire state together. On the road is where they shared many talks.

“We just meshed in a beautiful way that I don’t think either of us saw coming. It was just the most special, special time, those seven years of being with her and really being loved by her and being able to love her,” said Roberts.

While many people will remember Sock for her accomplishments and service to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Roberts says she always remember Sock’s smile, laugh, and joy.

“People have been surprised at how much I’ve worked in the past two days under these circumstances, especially some very tough work challenges. I said Karen was the biggest fighter and biggest warrior I’ve ever known. I’m going to fight in her name and in her spirit, whether it’s for hope squads or city development or the betterment of our community. We’re all going to fight in the name of Karen Sock.”

Sock was 73 years old.