Kellene Marie (Johnson) Simler – July 24th 1961 – November 4th 2021 Kelly was a loving mother, wife, daughter, sibling and friend. She always thought of and cared for her family first. She would take time out of her day to spend quality time with family and friends, whether it was a birthday, holiday, or a day out. She welcomed everyone she met with a friendly smile, and did not consider people strangers, just friends she hadn't met yet.

Kelly was an artist and writer at heart. She created several pieces of art that won awards in the Prairie Wind and Word of Art shows and participated in many local writing projects through ABC Writers. Kelly also had a deep love of music and theater. She was a part of several local choirs such as Bethany Praise Team, Believers, and the Amity Follies Theater Group. She participated in the costumes department during her high school years and continued that passion by helping with Highland Summerset productions. Kelly was a Para Educator at Freeport High School. She loved knowing that in some way she was making a difference in these young adults' lives. Kelly enjoyed building memories by going camping as a family and throwing Halloween parties. Some of her favorite things were tulips, the changing color of fall leaves, the freedom of a songbird, and a crisp blue sky.

Kelly is survived by her husband Mark H. Simler, and daughters; Heather M. Simler, Katherine N. Thurmond, and Marybeth C. Simler. She is also survived by her parents Homer and Irma Johnson, along with her siblings; Julie Miller, Mark Johnson, Michelle Healey, and Matthew Johnson.

A memorial for Kelly will be held on Saturday, November 20th, 2021 at Bethany UCC Church 2341 W. Stephenson Street, Freeport, IL 61032. Visitation at 10am, service at 11am, and a luncheon in Fellowship Hall to follow.