Last updated on: March 21, 2026
Karen Stacy Guthrie is a private Houston resident best known as the mother of American actress Leven Rambin (The Hunger Games, All My Children, Grey’s Anatomy). With roots in the city’s prominent Rambin family, she co-founded a real estate venture with her former husband, Joseph Howard Rambin III, contributing to Houston’s commercial real estate landscape behind the scenes.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Karen Stacy Guthrie (also known as Karen Guthrie Rambin post-marriage)
- Birthdate/Age: Not publicly available (estimated 60s–70s based on family timeline and children’s ages)
- Residence: Houston, Texas
- Occupation: Real estate businesswoman (co-founder of a real estate company with ex-husband)
- Former Spouse: Joseph Howard Rambin III (divorced; he passed away August 25, 2024, at age 79)
- Children: Leven Alice Rambin (actress, b. May 17, 1990), Joseph Harper Rambin Jr. (real estate professional), and Jay Rambin
- Other Family: Half-sibling connections through ex-husband (e.g., Mary Rambin, digital marketer and designer from Joseph’s prior marriage)
- Notable: Low-profile supporter of family; tied to Moody Rambin legacy (co-founded by ex-husband, a leading Houston commercial real estate firm)
Early Life and Background
Details about Karen’s early years, education, or parents remain private and undisclosed in public records. She is associated with Houston’s established Rambin family network, which has deep ties to Texas business (Joseph’s father, J. Howard Rambin Jr., was former CEO/president of Texaco). Karen’s life has centered on family and professional endeavors in Houston rather than public visibility.
Career in Real Estate
Karen was actively involved in real estate alongside Joseph Howard Rambin III. Sources, including Leven Rambin’s biographies, describe them as co-founders of a real estate company that contributed to Houston’s market. Joseph went on to co-found Moody Rambin in 1969, which grew into one of the largest locally owned commercial real estate firms in the city. While Karen’s specific role is not detailed publicly, her partnership with Joseph reflected shared entrepreneurial efforts in the industry. Joseph received the Houston Business Journal Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020 and founded the “Keep Houston Beautiful” initiative.
Marriage, Divorce, and Family
Karen married Joseph Howard Rambin III, with whom she raised a family in Houston. The couple later divorced (exact date not public). They had three children:
- Leven Alice Rambin (born 1990): Acclaimed actress known for roles in The Hunger Games (as Glimmer), Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, and soap operas. Leven has spoken positively about her supportive upbringing.
- Joseph Harper Rambin Jr.: Active in real estate; married to Elizabeth Jane, with a son; maintains a private life.
- Additional son (referred to variably as Jay or similar in sources; details limited).
From Joseph’s prior marriage, Leven and her siblings have half-sibling Mary Rambin (digital marketing expert, blogger at “More Than Mary,” Moe handbag designer; engaged in 2024; close family ties).
Karen has remained a steadfast, behind-the-scenes family supporter, prioritizing privacy amid Leven’s fame.
Recent Developments
Joseph Howard Rambin III passed away peacefully on August 25, 2024, at age 79, surrounded by family. Moody Rambin announced his death, highlighting his visionary leadership and community contributions. Karen’s current activities remain private, with no reported public statements or appearances since.
Legacy and Privacy
Karen Stacy Guthrie exemplifies the private side of a high-achieving family—supportive parent, business collaborator, and Houston resident—without seeking the spotlight. Her influence is evident in her children’s paths, particularly Leven’s grounded success rooted in family stability.
FAQs
Who is Karen Stacy Guthrie?
Mother of actress Leven Rambin; former real estate businesswoman in Houston.
What is her connection to Moody Rambin?
She co-founded a real estate company with ex-husband Joseph Howard Rambin III, who later co-founded Moody Rambin.
How many children does she have?
Three with Joseph: Leven Rambin and two sons (including Joseph Harper Rambin Jr.).
Is Joseph Howard Rambin III still alive?
No—he passed away on August 25, 2024.
What is known about her personal life?
Very little; she maintains a low profile focused on family in Houston.
