Kathy Lou Simpler, 73, of Ardmore, passed away at her home on Monday evening, February 23, 2026.

Kathy was born on September 9, 1952, in Gainesville to Fred Emerson and Billie Jo (Harris) McKay. She grew up with a strong sense of family and community that remained at the center of her life.

Kathy graduated from Turner High School in 1970, where she proudly served as a cheerleader and was an active member of the 4-H Club. On July 25, 1970, she married the love of her life, Stephen Ray Simpler, in Marietta. Together, they built a life centered on family, friendship, and hard work.

Kathy was an exceptional cook and gracious hostess. Her greatest joy was gathering family and friends for dinners, lively card games, or simply enjoying time together by the swimming pool. In her younger years, she served as rodeo queen coordinator for both the Shrine Club and the Jaycees. Kathy and her husband, Steve, owned Stubbs Western Wear for many years, where she took special pride in creating a beautiful Christmas window display each year.

An avid bowler for many years, Kathy also found joy in diamond art, often completing detailed pictures for others to enjoy. She had a playful spirit and was known as a practical joker, delighting in pointing to someone else after pulling a prank and watching innocently from a distance. Though she had many hobbies, her true passion was occasionally sneaking away to one of the local casinos.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Jo McKay; her brother, Billy Fred McKay; and her in-laws, John and Kathryn Simpler.

Those left to cherish her memory include her devoted husband, Steve Simpler of the home; son, Stephen Scott Simpler and wife Christina of Sequim, Washington; daughter, Jennifer Simpler and husband Jason Williamson of Ardmore; grandchildren, Dylan, Megan, and Katie Simpler; brother, Stephen Mark McKay and wife Jerlyn of Ardmore; sisters, Linda Bollinger of Houston, Texas, Barbara Harrison of Marietta, and Kelly Chambers and husband Jerry of Marietta; special cousin, Mary and Mikel Wallis of Ardmore; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

The family would like to express a special thank you to Michelle Douglas with Good Shepherd Hospice for her love and compassionate care during this difficult time.

The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date. Cremation services are under the direction of Flanagan-Watts Funeral Home and Cremation Services.