Karen Simmons

Karen Jeanne Ray Simmons, age 82, of Franklin, Tennessee, passed away on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, and was well-loved by her family.

Karen was born to the late James Ray and Wanda McCammack Ray and spent most of her life in Stilesville, Indiana. There, she and her beloved sister, the late Kristie Hopkins,managed the family farm together for many years — work she carried out with the same sharp mind and steady determination she brought to everything she did. Two and a half years ago, Karen made Tennessee her home so she could be closer to family, a move that gave those who loved her the gift of even more time together.

Smart and quick-witted, Karen could hold her own in any conversation — and certainly in any card game, where she was a formidable competitor. She loved word games,settling in with a good book, and cheering on her favorite teams from her spot in front of the TV. But her greatest joy, without question, was her grandchildren and great-grandchildren,who knew her simply as “Mimi.” She adored them completely, and they adored her right back.

Karen is survived by her children, Mike Simmons and his wife, Liz, and Mindy Higgins and her husband, Duane; her grandchildren, Parker Higgins and his wife, Ashley; Anna Sirface and her husband, Adam; Cameron Higgins, Chris Kellar and his wife, Lesley Waters-Kellar; Savannah Simmons, and Sean Simmons; and her great-grandchildren,Lainey Higgins, Quinn Kellar, Riley Kellar, and Noah Kellar.

In addition to her parents, Karen was preceded in death by her sister, Kristie Hopkins.

We will gather at Hampton Gentry Funeral Home (106 Shaw St. Plainfield, IN 46168) on Sunday, October 4th, 2026 for calling, which will be held from 1:00pm – 2:30pm, followed by a service at the funeral home where we will celebrate her life with family and friends. Inurnment will take place with the family at the Stilesville Cemetery afterwards, where Karen will be laid to rest in the community she called home for so many years. We find peace in knowing that she is now in her eternal home with Jesus.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Stilesville Volunteer Fire Department(IN) or to the Williamson County Volunteer Fire/Rescue - Station 22 (TN).