Utha Tebelman Simpson

Utha Tebelman Simpson

September 16, 1936 – October 27, 2026

Utha Tebelman Simpson, age 90, of Williamstown, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at her home on October 27, 2026, surrounded by her daughters.

Born on September 16, 1936, in Williamstown, Kentucky, Utha was the daughter of the late Robert Henry and Lola Belle Stone Tebelman, and the sister of the late Zilpha Tebelman Ruber.

Utha's life was a testament to fierce love, enduring faith in God, and the ability to find laughter even in difficult times. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by those fortunate enough to have known her.

Utha was a woman of remarkable strength, determination, and an unwavering work ethic. She believed in the value of hard work and made sure her children did too, whether that was schoolwork, yard work, or farm work. They each learned that a garden hoe would cure boredom every single time. Despite the great losses she suffered, she approached life with resilience, practicality, and a healthy dose of humor. The playful, teasing way she had with each of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was a joy to watch, as one by one most all of them grew taller than her.

An avid reader, Utha didn’t go anywhere without a book or her Kindle. She shared this love of reading with her children. Combined with her love of the ocean, reading on family beach vacations was only interrupted by insistence on meaningful conversation. Utha’s love for music and playing the piano was also passed down to her children.

Utha enjoyed the peace and quiet on her front porch swing overlooking the farm that she so loved. The squeaking of the swing’s chains provided the background music for many heartfelt talks and shared confidences. The cows, who she fondly called “her girls” followed her voice and the sight of her red truck; she could also be spotted on her John Deere tractor. Her family will long treasure memories of weekends spent camping along the creek, taking walks in the woods, and riding the four-wheeler. Her love of the outdoors included watching the birds at her bird feeders, and the butterflies that visited her flowers.

Utha was known to be strong-willed, independent, and never afraid to speak her mind— qualities that made her both unforgettable and deeply loved and sometimes feared! Just ask any of her children!

Above all, Utha's greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose love was demonstrated not only through words but through her actions. She worked hard, gave generously of herself, and was always there when someone needed her. Her loyalty to family and friends was steadfast, and the relationships she nurtured throughout her life were among her greatest treasures.

Utha is survived by her four daughters, Sheila Simpson Scott, Carol Simpson Spaw (Hal), Tina Simpson (Mike Poole), and Sonya Simpson Snow. She was preceded in death by two of her beloved children, Rickey Simpson and Terri Simpson Dezarn.

She also leaves behind 11 cherished grandchildren: Melanie, Julie, Erick, Lyndsie, Jordan, Olivia, Abby, Nick, Sami, Adam, and Kelsie. Each was a special part of her life, and her love for them will remain a lasting gift. Nine great-grandchildren brought a new spark of joy to her life: Eli, Logan, Holden, Kash, Derrick, Reid, Kennedy, Sullivan and Lennon. Her legacy will live on in the generations of family she loved so dearly.

Utha is also survived by 2 nieces, several cousins, and countless friends who will carry her memory with them.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 7 from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm. Funeral service at 1:00 pm at Stanley Funeral Homes, Williamstown, Ky. Private graveside service to follow at Morgan Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.