Julia Katherine Simon
Julia Katherine "Kit" Simon (nee Spencer) born on October 24, 1924 passed away in Round Rock, Texas, on February 27, 2012, at the age of 87. Vividly remembered mother (and mother-in-law) of Rita Orchard (Vince), Stephen (Cate), Kathy Simon (Paul Higley) and Sandy Simon (Michael); and special grandmother of Simon and Kate Orchard, Evan Howell and Matthew Simon. Predeceased by her husband, Thomas Simon, and sons Paul and Michael, as well as siblings Francis, Marshall, Marie, William, Carroll, Moffett, and Roxanna. Survived by her sister Norma.
Kit spent her childhood in Roxboro, N.C., where her father ran his undertaker's business out of the family home. Always an independent, travel-happy individual, in her early 20s, Kit's decision to join the civil service took her to Honolulu, where she soon met and married Tom Simon. Shortly thereafter, Tom took a job with Aramco in Saudi Arabia; Kit and their daughter Rita joined him out there in 1951. The family then quickly grew to include Paul, Michael, Stephen and Kathy. Over the next 20 years, the family traveled widely on their holidays, spending long sojourns in Europe, making four around-the-world trips, and encountering many a lore-creating adventure along the way: land crab invasion in Tahiti; mumps epidemic in Spain; small child left behind at Amsterdam departure terminal, to name but a very few.
Both in Arabia and once the family moved stateside in the early 70s, Kit gave generously of her time and talents (cake decorator and cook extraordinaire) to whatever Catholic parish she belonged to, and to Scout associations (her off-key rendition of "You are my Sunshine" is infamous), women's groups and the like. As well, Kit's sociability and her ability to befriend people easily always stood her in good stead; she had a legendary memory for birthdays and other anniversaries. She also took a perennial and notorious delight in Halloween, when she would attire herself in a witch's full regalia to greet her young callers.
Kit lived life on her own terms, guided by her abiding Catholic faith, a sharp intellect, and an optimistic spirit. She faced adversities and obstacles head-on and courageously. A strong personality, she stood her ground on her views and opinions; and she always remained as much a part of her community as she could. She was a unique woman: the world is a tad dimmer in her absence.
Kit's family would like to thank Dr. Harsh Babbar and the Critical Care staff at Seton Medical Centre Williamson, as well as Odyssey and Lighthouse at Altenheim Hospices, for their recent superb care. Special thanks also to Kit's neighbors, Dana and Ron Spivey, and friend Anne Foley, all of whose sustained kindness and support were crucial to Kit's independence and spirit.
A Funeral Mass, followed by a reception, will be held on Thursday, March 15th at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Thomas More Catholic Church, 10205 North Ranch Road 620, Austin. In lieu of flowers, Kit requested that you make a donation to a cancer or lung disease charity, or other charity of your choice.