Kathy Simmons

(From Parker Mortuary)

Kathryn Rana Simmons, age 61, of Joplin, Missouri, entered heaven’s gates on Friday, November 22, 2024 at Mercy Hospital following a long illness. Kathy was born December 31, 1962 in Stella, Missouri to her parents, Richard and Phyllis (Engle) Simmons.

Kathy was a graduate of Parkwood High School class of 1981 and later went on to receive her Associates Degree in Accounting. Kathy was a long-time member of Byers Avenue United Methodist Church of Joplin where she volunteered for many years in the church library. 

Kathy had a love for cross-stitching and shared that talent with many of her friends and family through the years. Kathy was happiest when playing card games and board games with family and friends. She enjoyed movies, shopping and coloring Disney pictures on her iPad using the Happy Color app. She had a love of classic cartoon characters. Many of the shirts she wore had Winnie the Pooh, Snoopy, or Mickey Mouse on the front.

Those left to mourn her passing include her parents, Richard and Phyllis Simmons of Joplin; sisters Kim Gradwohl of Joplin and Kayla Campbell (Michael) of Duenweg; numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Kathy is preceded in death by an infant brother, Keith Simmons, and a brother in-law Kenneth Gradwohl.

Funeral services are planned for Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Byers Avenue United Methodist Church in Joplin. Burial will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery in Joplin.




Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.