Duncan - Karen J. Folsom Simmons was born April 23, 1948, to W.E. and Geneva Folsom in Duncan, Oklahoma. She passed from life Aug. 25, 2025, with family by her side.

Karen attended Duncan schools and graduated in 1966. Karen married Don Simmons in 1966. They had 59 years together.

Karen began her marriage as a military wife living at Edwards Air Force Base in California. There, two sons were added to their family: John Douglas and Russell Lee. After four years, they moved to Oklahoma City for a short time, then to Idabel. After four years there, Karen and family moved back to Duncan. Karen worked at Halliburton, the Marlow Review and The Duncan Banner in graphic design.

She was a member of the Choctaw Nation and Chickasaw Elders. Her many interests included painting, bus trips with the Chickasaw elders, cruising with family and friends and researching genealogy.

Karen is survived by her husband of 59 years Don; son Russel; and granddaughter Jessica; four great-grandsons; sister Elaine Moore and husband Billy, of Oklahoma City; three sisters-in-law: Kay Gray, Sue Early and husband David, and Dixie Simmons, all of Comanche.

She was preceded in death by her son John Douglas; parents W.E. and Geneva Folsom; her sister, Fran; and in-laws Kenneth and Grace Simmons.

Karen has been entrusted to the care of Carter Smart Funeral Home in Duncan. A memorial service will take place at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025, in the Carter Smart Funeral Home Chapel with David Woods officiating.

Online condolences may be sent to www.cartersmartfuneralhome.com.