Kathleen Kay Simmons, age 69, of Spartanburg, South Carolina, passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at The Groves Assisted Living in Oak Ridge. Kathy was born on August 20, 1956, in Ashland, Ohio, to the late Donald Lee and Norma Jean Wertman.

Kathy was a devoted and loving woman whose life was centered around caring for others. A lifelong Lutheran and a dedicated LPN in South Carolina for many years, she had a natural gift for compassion and service. She found joy in helping people and made a lasting impact on those she cared for throughout her career.

Above all, Kathy treasured her family. She shared a deep and abiding love with them and cherished every moment spent together. Her warmth, kindness, and genuine love for people lit up the lives of all who knew her. Kathy also had a special place in her heart for animals and showed them the same gentle care and affection she gave so freely to others.

She enjoyed traveling and creating memories along the way, always embracing life with an open heart.

In addition to her parents, Kathy was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Fred Simmons, and her sister, Cindy Benjamin.

She is survived by her sister, Becky Rodd, and husband Al of Clinton; her brother, Tim Wertman, and wife Carlene of Lafayette, Indiana; and several nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.

Kathy's family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses of Caris Hospice and the staff at The Groves Assisted Living for the loving and compassionate care they provided.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton, which is in charge of arrangements. Holleygamble.com

Kathy will be remembered for her loving heart, her gentle spirit, and the kindness she showed to her family, her friends, and every life—both human and animal—that she touched.