Karen Stacey

January  4th, 1969 January  19th, 2025
West Midlands
Karen Stacey

What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.

Obituary

It is with profound sadness that we announce that our friend and colleague, Karen Stacey, Managing Director of Bspoke Lifestyle, has passed away following a short battle with cancer.

Karen joined the Bspoke Group as Group Operations Director of RCHL in May 2019 and became the Managing Director of Bspoke Lifestyle, known then as Binnacle Insurance Services, in June 2020 which also incorporated the management of the Compass Insurance brand. Her vision, tenacity, and determination were instrumental in laying the solid foundations for these businesses, which have flourished under her exceptional leadership.

For all of you that had the privilege of knowing Karen, you will know that she never approached anything without absolute dedication and a sense of humour. She found the fun and camaraderie in every situation. We feel immensely proud and privileged that she was part of our business and so grateful for the lasting positive impact she has had on the lives of her colleagues and friends across the Bspoke Group.

After 30 years working in the insurance industry, Karen built countless connections and relationships throughout her career. Her dedication and passion for her work left a lasting impact on many colleagues, clients, and contacts. With the blessing of Karen's family, we invite you to share your thoughts and memories of her here. Your stories and reflections will not only honour Karen’s professional legacy but also provide comfort to those who knew and loved her.

Our thoughts remain with Karen’s family at this time.

Gallery


Memory wall

Post your condolences or share your Memories.


February 7, 2025
On joining Compass Karen sent a fairly unique "I'd like to get to know you" email to the Appointed Representatives. I replied immediately instinctively recognising she was different to many corporate leaders who say but not do! I was right, before we knew it she was having lunch with us at home and asking pertinent questions about the relationship between Compass and holiday parks. Her friendly approach sat alongside dynamic business acumen and leadership. She had my respect from the start and my fondness for her as an individual followed shortly. I will not forget her.
Sue Lodge
February 5, 2025
Karen was vibrant, empathetic, fun-loving, and extremely professional. From our very first meeting and Board presentation—at a particularly challenging time for the Compass brand—her diligence, tenacity, and unwavering commitment to supporting us shone through. No matter the setting, whether social or professional, Karen had a way of lighting up the room.
Karen’s professionalism was equalled only by her warmth and caring nature, making her truly special to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She had a rare ability to bring people together, leaving a lasting impact that will not fade. Karen will be deeply missed, but her spirit, kindness, and energy will remain in our hearts.
Thank you, Karen, for everything. We are all better for having known you.
Philip Brierley
February 3, 2025
Whilst I only knew Karen for a short period, I know she will be sorely missed by everyone who met her - Karen could light up any room and was always a joy to be with.
Jeff Turner
January 30, 2025
We were so saddened by the news about Karen.
She always was professional and quick to offer support and solve any issues with a positive and cheerful approach.
We were always pleased to catch up with her at the North West Branch golf day where she hosted the half way house and to invite her to the North West annual dinner where she was always one of the first on the dance floor.


Clare Yates and John Kirkham - Eastham Hall Holiday Park
Clare Yates
January 28, 2025
Karen was always willing to help you when needed and her smile along with her sunny disposition will always be remembered.

I can recall many great Compass night's out, especially where wine was involved!

My thoughts are with Andrew, Jenna, family and friends at this sad time.

Rest in peace x
Stuart Lindsay
January 28, 2025
Karen was one-of-a-kind. Her passion and enthusiasm was infectious and inspiring, and she brought a sense of humour to everything she tackled.

I’ll miss raising a glass with you at work parties, having a boogie and a laugh. Thank you for being such a force of fun and kindness, you are gone far too soon. x
Kathryn Skilling
January 28, 2025
It’s taken me some time to find the right words to honour such a wonderful friend and colleague.

Karen was one of the most passionate and positive people I have ever worked with, and her enthusiasm was infectious.

I have far too many stories to recount of our time working together, many of which was me trying to keep up with her work hard and play even harder mentality.

I always dreaded the ‘I’ve had a really random idea…’ phone call and wondered what she could possibly have in store for us next. Saying that she had a way of always persuading me to go along with her ideas.

Karen taught me a lot personally and professionally and was a true inspiration who I will miss terribly.

My heart goes out to Andrew, Jenna, family, friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time.
Tracey O'Shea
January 28, 2025
We instantly hit it off with Karen when we met at a conference a couple of years ago. Karen and I bonded over our love of holidays and were sharing stories and adventure travels. I know from the last time we met she had just embarked on an amazing trip to Thailand. We were lucky enough to be invited to a Spanish restaurant in Waterloo with the Compass team last February and I had the best seat, next to Karen. We continued to talk holidays whislt drinking lots of sangria and wine and we had the best night. We never stopped laughing, mainly at the expense of Andy Moore who made us fall about with some amusing photos.
It turns out this was the last time we were to see Karen and my lasting memory is having the best evening with her and so much fun. We were a simialr age and had so much in common, we had clicked and although we had not known each other a long time I felt that we would have bencome friends long into the future. That future has been cruelly taken from her. We send our deepest condolances to the family. I will remeber her with fun and laughter and whenever I drink a glass of Sangira I will raise a glass to the lovely Karen and remember her with a smile.
Martin & Victoria Bowrey - Back of Beyond
January 28, 2025
We are deeply saddened to learn of Karen's passing. On behalf of everyone at Berkeleyparks, our thoughts are with Karen's family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. She was a fantastic colleague to us all and will be greatly missed. 
Berkeleyparks
January 28, 2025
Karen brought a smile and a sense of optimism to every situation. Her energy and drive touched us all. She will be sorely missed. x
Debbie Walker
January 27, 2025
I owe so much to Karen from giving me my first job insurance to wonderful memories I will hold dear including being at my wedding and allowing her daughter to be my bridesmaid. Karen was a special lady and will be truly missed. Fly High beautiful lady, heaven has certainly gained an angel.
Emma Lowndes
January 27, 2025
I was deeply saddened to hear of Karen’s passing.

Karen’s leadership and contributions to the industry were truly remarkable. It’s clear she made a lasting impact through her dedication, professionalism, and passion for her work—a legacy that will not be forgotten.

I’m deeply thankful for all the times spent chatting at shows, conferences and industry get togethers, as well as all the support Karen provided to the Tingdene Group over the years.

My thoughts are with her family, friends, and all her colleagues at this incredibly difficult time.
Ian Collier
January 27, 2025
So sad to hear of Karen's passing. She was always a friendly face at parks events and someone I would look forward to catching up with
- someone full of life and fun as well as having practical and thoughtful insight on how to help solve problems. I feel honoured to have known her for the past 10 years or so
Nick Dyson
January 27, 2025
Life can be so cruel. We will all miss you Karen and promise to always work hard and play hard.

My craziest memory has to be during the Covid lock down, when we were all asked to try and produce a group sing along on zoom, to the 'Caravan of Love' which she intended to share on social media. As is often the case, Karen started with "I've had a little bit of a crazy idea folks!..." We were quickly split into groups and given our lines... Mine was the ohhs and the ahhhs in harmony with Karen herself. Sadly despite the effort of everyone, we didn't have the studio and equipment to rival the likes of Gary Barlow and his daily lockdown crooner sessions and our efforts just ended up hidden away on the B drive somewhere. The idea being brilliant and the execution not so.

Forever in our thoughts.

Sharon Chipping
January 25, 2025
I met Karen regularly at industry events. As I write this I am thinking of her cheerful and laughter-filled conversation, her enthusiasm for her job and her team, and her gift for explaining insurance simply and with a light touch. Karen will be missed by everyone who knew her at Tozers, and we send our condolences to her family and friends.
Paul Kelly
January 25, 2025
I worked with Karen at GA B'ham in the late 1980's and early 1990s. Last time I saw her was in a pub in Birmingham, I was out with some friends and she spotted me: she made a real fuss of me ! So full of life and sparkle......
My thoughts go out to her family and friends.
The amount of comments on this wall are a testament to how well liked she was. RIP Karen.
Simon Garfield
January 24, 2025
There will never been anyone like Karen, truly a unique soul in the best way

My first introduction to Karen was a summer do before i even started with Compass. Karen had a microphone to do a speech but couldn't help herself and started singing instead. To me, that just epitomised Karen and will always be my favourite memory of her.

I've never met someone who had such passion for their work and for life in general.

Work socials will never be the same without you but we'll raise a drink for you every time
Dan Sharp
January 24, 2025
I first met Karen in 2004 when we were both invited to be on AXA’s management training course in Bordeaux amongst other brokers. She was just an amazing individual and ever since we always had a great laugh every time we met at insurance functions. One of the loveliest people I have ever met. So sad to hear this news - the industry and the world have lost a great person. My condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.
Peter Jones
January 24, 2025
I was lucky enough to work with Karen whilst at Primary.

She was always full of enthusiasm whilst being professional and made it a fun place to work.

Will be missed by many but also remembered very fondly by all.
Owen Hendry
January 24, 2025
It was lovely to work with you at Karen at NIG in Birmingham -
Alastair Shaw
January 24, 2025
Such a lovely lady. A great asset to our industry. She made it her business to understand us and help many of us. She will be sadly missed. Malcolm and all at Keat Farm.
Malcolm Kent
January 24, 2025
Such sad news. the last time we saw Karen was at the Compass do at the Bournemouth Conference , that was a great night. My thoughts are to her family for her loss. Great lady and friend.
Gary Duce
January 24, 2025
Very saddened to hear this news, Karen was such an infectious person to be around, she always had time for a big hug, chat and loved to party. Her big smile and personality will be missed!
My deepest condolences to Karen's family and friends at the time.

Sending all our love from Myself, Jason and the Eureka Team.
MELISSA WYSOME
January 24, 2025
We are so saddened by the News of Karen's Passing. We first met in 2019 I was immediately impressed by her Enthusiasm and Professionalism. Over the 5 years I had the privilege of working with her on various projects, I will always be grateful for her Support and Friendship.
Karen was one of a kind the way she integrated herself into the working partnership with BHHPA and into the Caravan Leisure Industry was remarkable. We have lost one of the Best of the Best. My deepest Condolences to Andrew and Family and all of Her team in Gloucester.
RIP Beautiful Lady Keep Singing and Dancing. We will miss you xx
Terry & Cinamon Ansell
January 24, 2025
I’m very saddened to learn of Karen’s passing and my thoughts are with Karen’s family, friends and colleagues at this most difficult of times. On the few occasions I met with Karen what always shone through was her spirit of enthusiasm, energy and friendliness. She will, be deeply missed.
James Sumner
January 23, 2025
Karen interviewed me and gave me my only job ever in insurance, to work for Primary back in 2003 for nearly 6 years. 22 years later this little work force are still the absolute nuggets of gold when I look at my best old colleagues and friends. She was one of the absolute best, we shared so many laughs, quite a few boogies and sing songs, many a drink or two or three, lots of good times and also some bad. Waking up to this news today is absolutely tragic. Karen you were such a fantastic woman to have worked with and known. My heart goes out to Jenna and Andrew and your family and friends. God bless you huni, I'll raise a glass tonight, although it be 0% cause I'm still being a good girl now..... who would have thought it eh lady xxxx
Claire Leech
January 23, 2025
I had the great pleasure of working with Karen for a few years during our mutual Primary days and then a little later when she briefly joined me again at JSW Insurance. She was a great friend to me at that time, as we addressed some difficult challenges together. I will never forget her leading the singing at a party at my house one wonderful summer evening. She had quite a voice!
My heart is full of sadness this evening. All my best wishes to the loved ones that she leaves behind.
Michaelx
Michael Whitfield
January 23, 2025
I'm so sorry to hear this sad news. Karen was such a lovely person - so friendly and genuine. She was really passionate about the sector and her knowledge shone through. We had a good boogie at the NW branch Xmas party one year and it was a pleasure to catch up at Conference each year. My thoughts, love and strength are with her family and friends x
Aimee Hutchinson
January 23, 2025
I’m beyond sad to hear this tragic news. I knew Karen for over 25 years. We worked together at GA Bham and stayed in touch through all these years. . We had been in touch just this last October when she told me she was poorly - but she said she was planning some crazy parties and we would spend some time together. She was a ray of light and we used to spend a lot of time laughing - mainly when we shouldn’t have. Sending her family my sincere condolences. She will be sadly missed.
Cathy Taylor
January 23, 2025
I’m deeply saddened by the news. Karen was a truly remarkable person who touched the lives of many with her warm and caring nature. Her presence always brought a sense of happiness and humour! She could light up any room with her smiley demeanor.

In her professional life, Karen was known for her dedication and excellence. She approached every task with a level of professionalism that was both inspiring and admirable. I’m honoured to say Karen was a friend, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer support.

Everyone at Leisuredays extends our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones during this difficult time. RIP Karen.
Gareth Walker
January 23, 2025
So sad to hear this news. Having known Karen for a few years with the BH&HPA, she was lovely and had the most warm and friendly personality. She will be sorely missed by the caravan parks industry.My condolences to her family. Rest in peace Karen.
Ian James
January 23, 2025
So sad, it was only last year we had an enjoyable night with Karen at the
BH&HPA conference.
Our condolences go out to all the family.
Joanne Bridgen
January 23, 2025
Karen,
Thank you for all your support to Tingdene Group through the time we worked together. You ensured your team were always dedicated, supportive and practical.

I enjoyed our many discussions at park home shows and conferences about the sector and wider insurance industry. Thank you and you will be missed.
Ethan Zone
January 23, 2025
So sorry to hear this terribly sad news. I only knew Karen for a few years through BH&HPA conferences and events - such a lovely lady with a genuinely warm personality, somebody who you would always cross the room to go and have a catch up with. Many condolences to the family. Rest in peace Karen xx
Richard Moss
January 23, 2025
Karen was a bubbly person and always with a smile. I had the pleasure of booking her in to undertake presentations for BHHPA meetings as well as seeing her at Conference etc. A lovely lady and a pleasure to deal with, she will be missed..
Malcolm Baker
January 23, 2025
I first met Karen way back in the Primary days and then we worked together briefly when Thistle became part of the PIB Group. Karen was one those stand-out people in the insurance industry - talented, warm, so much fun and absolutely unforgettable. It was always such a pleasure to see her at events like BIBA (in her element!) with that infectious smile and swap stories of the leisure sector.

Rest easy now Karen, you made a huge difference to so many.

Mart xx
Martin Hall
January 23, 2025
I knew Karen through business as I helped her find staff for her amazing business. She was an absolutely astute business woman, and a lovely person to match, and people loved working for and with her.

It is so sad to see she has been taken too soon. RIP Karen x
Kieran Boyle
January 23, 2025
I met Karen when we worked at general accident in Birmingham in 1988. We became friends. We both moved on within insurance and so our ability to meet up in person became less frequent but we always sent Christmas and birthday cards.
BIBA was our yearly meet up and her love of life and happiness was infectious
Rest easy Karen, you will be missed. Sending love to her family and friends xx
Jayne gardner
January 23, 2025
I almost went to work for Karen a few years ago when she approached me about an upcoming role. I met her as part of the interview process and her energy was so incredible that I sent her a bouquet of flowers when I declined the role (it was just the wrong time for me). I still thought about her and was only referencing her to my husband last night as I was always convinced she would be a fantastic and fun boss. I am deeply sad to read this post this morning. Karen's light shone very brightly indeed. Much love to those who had the privilege of knowing her for she touched me and I only met her once or twice. xxxxx
Joanne Caton
January 23, 2025
Karen, so sorry to read of your passing.

I had the pleasure of meeting and working with you 20 years ago and whilst our careers went in different directions it was always a delight to see you at BIBA and the like. Your cheery smile and pleasant conversation was something I always looked forward to each year.

Rest in peace Karen

Gareth xx
Gareth Absalom
January 23, 2025
Karen,
It was as always a pleaseure to be in your company, so bubbly and a free spirit. I will miss our chats definatley.

My thoughts go out to the family at this very sad time xx
Phill Wheeler
January 23, 2025
Karen, you were such a happy, positive and bubbly person to be around. Being a fellow midlander it was always great seeing you at trade events as your accent made me feel like i was at home. You were always lovely to talk to and just a wonderful person.

RIP Karen Stacey you will be missed.

xx
Craig Loxston
January 23, 2025
Karen, it was with great sadness i heard of your medical challenges and with even greater sadness at this final outcome.

We shared great times and big laughs. With a keen brain and intellect and a passion for getting the best outcomes, I will always cherish our fireside chat in front of the group that over ran because we were just having a lovely chat together!

My thoughts and prayers go to your family and all my blessings.

RIP Karen Stacey

xXx
Craig Morgan
January 23, 2025
Karen, you were a true one off and an absolute pleasure to work with. You will be remembered often and always with great fondness. Rest in peace xx
Joanne Deveney
January 22, 2025
Karen, from the moment I met you back in 2022, we immediately clicked and your positive and fun outlook was just so infectious.

I always enjoyed your company and really looked forward to our time together. At the same time I found your leadership style truly inspirational. You led business with such a passion and commitment that never, ever dulled and every challenge was met with a smile.

Karen, you will be truly missed in so many ways.

Rest in peace.

Nick xx
Nick Grazier
January 22, 2025
I feel incredibly fortunate to have known Karen, even if only for a brief time. She profoundly influenced how I face challenges, encouraging me to 'take the bull by the horns.'

From sharing joyful moments to our memorable fire walk, Karen exemplified true bravery. She was a remarkable woman, and it is an honor to have known her.

Karen will be forever missed x
Sophie Bartlett
January 22, 2025
Thinking about our Fawlty Towers night with Glen in Gloucester will forever make me laugh. Only one of many excellent memories.

Karen, you were a good friend and colleague and I miss you.
Andy Drake
January 22, 2025
I only met Karen a few times (BIBAs and the conference last year) but i knew immediately that she was someone who made life and working in insurance (especially for Bspoke Group) that much better. a
What started off as a "quick" chat before the dinner on the first night of the conference ended up with us finding out we grew up in the same small town on the suburbs of Birmingham and that we had gone to the same primary school. It quickly became a full reminisce of old stomping grounds including the Kings Norton "mop" (IYKYK!!)
I only wish there had been more opportunities to spend time with Karen and hear her infectious laugh and wonderful sense of humour but for those handful of times I did spend time in her company, I am grateful.
I will miss you but know you leave a wonderful legacy as both an amazing human being, and an inspiration in the insurance world.

David. x
David Ware
January 22, 2025
I have never worked for someone quite like Karen before. She is truly a force to be reckoned with—an inspiring and empowering figure, especially for women at the Executive / Managerial Level.

Karen epitomizes the “work hard, play hard” mentality, setting the bar incredibly high for all of us to follow. I will never forget my first week when I started with Bspoke Lifestyle back in December 2021.

It was a whirlwind sitting with Karen in a one-on-one meeting; her enthusiasm, passion, and vision were intoxicating. I knew I had made the right choice coming here. Rounding off my first week was the Christmas Curry night, where Karen got us singing 'The Twelve Days of Christmas'. It was clear none of us were destined for X Factor!

Her creative ideas are imaginative, though I’m still not sure about the caravan-shaped pasta!

Thank you, Karen, for being such an immense inspiration to me, both professionally and personally.

Wendy
xxx
Wendy Ha
January 22, 2025
Tim introduced Karen to me back in October 2023, during the early days before Bspoke acquired Police & Forces Mutual. He suggested we connect, and what a great idea that turned out to be.

We first met for lunch in Wolverhampton, and we clicked instantly. Hours flew by as we talked, covering so much ground in one afternoon. I’ll always look back on that day with fondness—your energy, passion, and enthusiasm were so inspiring.

Over the next 15 months, we had regular catch-ups, sharing stories about life and work. Even while facing your illness, you never let it define you or slow you down. Your resilience was remarkable.

The last time we met was during our mid-December meeting. True to form, you looked as glamorous as ever, braving both a snowstorm and an unexpected midnight fire alarm! I gave you a lift home, and of course, we talked all the way—just like always.

I feel so fortunate to have known you, even if it was for such a short time. I know you wouldn’t want us to be sad, but it’s hard not to feel the loss of someone so special.

Lots of love,
Kerry
xx
Kerry McMahon White
January 22, 2025
The first time I met Karen was at the BIBA conference a few years ago and I remember that night we were sat in the rather dreary bar of the Premier Inn.
We were having fun but then some great music came on and Karen was straight up dancing around the bar, she certainly brightened the place up!
When we met up more recently, we had to navigate the chaos of a fire alarm at the hotel but in the midst of it all, she suggested a selfie and got us all smiling again!

Keep smiling and dancing Karen. Your positivity was infectious and will be missed so much.
Deirdre
Deirdre Donovan
January 22, 2025
My heart is heavy with sadness at Karen’s passing, the world is certainly a darker place without her.

I have so many fond memories of her and I counted myself so lucky to land her inspiring talents when she agreed to join us in 2019, despite me explaining the magnitude of the task ahead.

I knew she was really good from the time we worked together before, but she had got so much better in time we were apart and so she proved to go on by building the leading insurance business in the hospitality sector. The success of Bspoke Lifestyle and the Compass scheme rests with our beloved Karen.

Karen, was always up for a challenge, but she made it such fun, somehow persuading us that dressing up, singing and enjoying her self depreciating humour was the most effective way of generating success, and you know she was right..

Our lives are richer for having known you Karen, our business is in great shape, thanks to your vision, passion and dedication, you put much more into your life than most do in many more years, your memory will not be forgotten.

Rest in peace

Tim xx
Tim Smyth
Share

Secure payment

First Lastname donation
Order total: £ 0
Your host will receive your funds within 24 hours.