Karla Thibodeau Chamberlain died June 19 in Dover, N.H. She was 57.
Chamberlain was born Dec. 11, 1953 in Lincoln, Maine and grew up in Mattawamkeag, Maine. She was the oldest daughter of Merton and Pauline Thibodeau.
Chamberlain, a naturally talented singer, began performing when she was five years old. She sang with Dick Curless and Buck Owens when she was a young girl.
Chamberlain sang throughout high school during the 1970s and soon after moved to the Bangor, Maine area where she sang lead vocals for several popular bands. She toured with Noel “Paul” Stookey and the Bodyworks Band across the U.S., as well as in London and Australia. Chamberlain co-wrote the popular song “Made in the Image” with Jay Leon, which was performed with the BodyWorks Band.
In 1980, Chamberlain moved to Southern California and became the worship leader at the Malibu Christian Fellowship. She loved living in a cottage on the beach in Malibu near the church.
Those who knew Chamberlain say that she “possessed an incredible sense of humor, knew the value of friendship and a personal relationship with God.” She is also remembered for her compassion, generosity and helpful nature.
Chamberlain died from multiple sclerosis.
Chamberlain is survived by her husband Craig, her mother Pauline, her sister Marla, her aunt and uncle Loretta and Dick Manzo, her aunt Juanita Hunter and many cousins and friends. She is preceded in death by her father and younger sister Shari.
A private celebration of life will take place.
Contributions on Chamberlain’s behalf can be made to the Bangor Humane Society, 693 Mount Hope Ave., #B, Bangor, ME, 04401 or at BangorHumane.org.