The gentle breeze that swept through Lansing, Kansas, on February 21, 2024, carried with it an air of melancholy as the community mourned the unexpected passing of Cathy Jo Simpson. At the age of 62, Cathy Jo departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of love, creativity, and cherished memories.
In the midst of sorrow, let us also find solace in the countless moments of joy and laughter that Cathy Jo brought into our lives. May her memory be a blessing, and may we honor her legacy by embracing life with the same passion, creativity, and love that she embodied so fully.
Early Years and Family Roots
Cathy Jo Simpson graced this world on May 10, 1961, in the vibrant city of Oakland, California, to Ray and Susie Watkins. From her earliest days, Cathy Jo exhibited a spirited nature and a profound curiosity about the world around her. Her formative years were spent in Arkansas, where she embraced the warmth of Southern hospitality and forged enduring connections within her community. It was at Arkansas Tech University that Cathy Jo’s path intertwined with that of her beloved husband, Kelly Simpson. Their union blossomed into a journey of shared dreams, lasting nearly three decades, a testament to the strength of their bond and the depth of their love.
A Passion for Creativity
Throughout her life, Cathy Jo Simpson was a beacon of creativity, finding joy and solace in the realms of art and craftsmanship. Her passion for photography was unparalleled, capturing moments of beauty and spontaneity with her camera lens. Among her most cherished subjects were her two granddaughters, Lisa and Sarah, whose smiles illuminated her world with boundless happiness.
In addition to her prowess behind the camera, Cathy Jo possessed a remarkable talent for sewing and various crafts. Whether meticulously stitching together fabrics or intricately crafting handmade treasures, she poured her heart and soul into every endeavor, leaving behind a trail of cherished heirlooms and cherished memories.
Devotion to Family
Above all else, Cathy Jo Simpson’s heart belonged to her family, particularly her daughter, Jennifer Thomas, and her adored grandchildren, Lisa and Sarah. She found immense joy in nurturing and supporting her loved ones, imparting wisdom and affection with every embrace. For Cathy Jo, the role of grandmother was not merely a title but a sacred privilege, one she embraced with boundless enthusiasm and unwavering devotion.
In the embrace of her family, Cathy Jo found solace and strength, weathering life’s trials with grace and resilience. Her legacy of love and compassion will endure through the generations, a testament to the profound impact she had on all who knew her.
A Lasting Legacy
As Cathy Jo Simpson’s journey on this earth comes to a close, her memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Though she may have departed this world unexpectedly, her spirit remains eternally present, a guiding light for those who carry her legacy forward. Farewell, dear Cathy Jo. Though you may be gone from our sight, you will forever reside in our hearts, a cherished guardian angel watching over us with love everlasting.
