Dr. Karen Yeh Obituary: Augusta, GA She Passed Away From Lung Cancer
Dr. Karen Yeh, aged 60, of Augusta, GA, peacefully passed away on July 18, 2023, after displaying remarkable bravery in her battle with chronic lung disease.
Who is Karen Anne McKibben Yeh ?
Born on September 9, 1962, in Augusta, Georgia, Karen was the beloved daughter of Dr. Thomas Jui-ting Yeh and Doris McKibben Yeh. Growing up in Savannah, Georgia, she graduated with distinction from Savannah Country Day School in 1980. She then pursued dual bachelor’s degrees in biology and anthropology at Duke University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1984. Returning to Augusta, she earned her medical degree at the Medical College of Georgia in 1988. Completing her general surgery residency at MCG, she further honed her skills by undertaking a surgical oncology fellowship at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia.
In 1995, she returned to Augusta permanently as an attending physician at the Medical College of Georgia, dedicating herself to the surgical oncology service and fostering a strong commitment to the education of her medical students and residents. Her devotion to teaching, inspired by her own mentors, garnered Karen numerous teaching awards and the love and respect of those she guided.
An Inspiring Life Karen Anne McKibben Yeh
Amidst her illustrious academic career, Karen was blessed with the arrival of her two children, Katy Frost and Thomas. Balancing motherhood, medical practice, and her patients, she transitioned to private practice, where she continued to excel. Despite an already busy schedule, Karen held additional roles as the Chair of Piedmont Augusta Cancer Committee, the driving force and founder of Piedmont Augusta’s Cancer Survivorship Program, a devoted volunteer for the Miracle Mile Committee, a passionate supporter of Augusta’s Relay for Life walk, and a liaison for the American Cancer Society.
With the unwavering support of what she humbly referred to as “her village” – her friends, family, and even many of her patients – she effortlessly managed all her commitments. Guided by her deeply held belief that “every day is a gift,” Karen embodied fortitude, integrity, loyalty, grace, kindness, and boundless selfless generosity. Her genuine humility made her an understated hero, spreading light and bringing joy to all whose lives she touched.
Karen is survived by her loving children, Kathryn Frost (22) and Thomas (20), her parents Thomas and Doris Yeh, her brother Dr. Thomas Yeh, Jr., her sister Dr. Jennifer Yeh (Daniel), and her nephew Christopher.
Dr. Karen Yeh Obituary and Funeral Service
In lieu of flowers, the family requests remembrances be sent to the Miracle Mile Piedmont Augusta Foundation.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at 10:00 AM at the Church of the Good Shepherd, with the Reverend Dr. Joe Bowden officiating. The interment will be conducted privately.
Friends may pay their respects at Platt’s Crawford Avenue Chapel on Friday afternoon, July 21, 2023, from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM.
You can read some condolences for Karen below;
Mary Skidmore4 hours ago
Dr. Yeh was the bestDoctor I have ever had. She had a way of making you feel cared for and had a very comforting personality. She will be missed terribly. Fly high and rest in peace.
Melanie Carter5 hours ago
My condolences to Karen’s family at this difficult time. I met her through her sister Jennifer when I was taking care of their mother , Doris. Such a sweet soul taken too soon. Prayers for all during this difficult time. May she rest in peace. Melanie Leopold Carter
Andrea Messex6 hours ago
Dr. Yeh was my Dr. She was such a caring and amazing doctor. She took my fears and worries. The news of her passing made me Very sad. She will be highly missed💔 My prayers go out to the family and friends.❤️
Laurie Ott6 hours ago
Dr Yeh was an incredible champion for patients, our hospital and Foundation. She was a tireless advocate for doing what’s best for patients and those fortunate to be in her care. She volunteered on The Miracle Mile Walk Committee for more than a decade and was always among the first volunteers to show up at 5:30 in the morning that third Saturday in October. We have lost a giant and our hearts go out to her family, her work family and her family of patients.
Laurie Ott
I was so shocked by this news. I had just helped out for a morning in her office. Years ago she was my physician and called me on a Sunday to give me the good news of a clear biopsy. I couldn’t believe she called on a Sunday but to her that was standard practice. My prayers are with her family and friends.
Dr. YAH was my doctor. I had what she thought was the beginning of a skin cancer. She called me at home to let me know it was squamous and not melanoma. She rejoiced with me. She was a calming doctor. Rest on Peace Dr Yeh
Dr Yeh was the first and only doctor that said I scared her. I have so many unusual health issues that could cost me my life.
She was one of the most thorough and caring physicians that I have ever had the pleasure of being their patient. I will miss her tremendously in my continued health with office. She was a lovely and caring person. My prayers and condolences go out to her family and close friends.
Virginia Harris