Karen Simmons

Karen Marie (Schofield) Simmons, 55, of Franklin passed away peacefully in her sleep Aug. 6 at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Cambridge after battling a lengthy illness.

She was the beloved wife of John L. “Jack” Simmons Jr., with whom she shared 24 years of marriage. Karen was the daughter of the late Roger T. and Kathy (Mahoney) Schofield, formerly of Framingham and Harwich.

By far, Karen’s greatest pride and joy was being a devoted mom to Kaitlyn, 21, and John, 16. Watching them grow and participate in sporting events, their superior academic achievements, and Kaitlyn’s love for Stonehill College brought her so much joy. She was the adoring “Auntie” to many nieces and nephews and she took great interest in all of their achievements.

She attended Framingham North High School (Class of 1983) and Southeastern Massachusetts University (’87). There she met and remained very close with her “Framingham & SMU girls.” She was the common bond between them all and enjoyed organizing get-togethers.

She sadly leaves behind her brothers, Dr. Thomas and Tracy Schofield of Westford, Roger and Susan Schofield of Hopkinton, and Stephen and Nancy Schofield of Plymouth.

Calling hours are Friday, Aug. 20, in the Charles F. Oteri and Son Funeral Home, 33 Cottage St., Franklin, from 3-7 p.m. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral Mass on Saturday, Aug. 21, in St. Mary’s Church, 1 Church Square, Franklin, at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, Karen requests that you pay kindness and love forward to your family, friends and strangers in need.