Kathleen Littwin Simon

Dr. Kathleen "Kathy" Littwin Simon, age 78, passed away on October 23, 2025. She was born January 28, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late John Littwin and Eileen McMahon Littwin.

Kathy passed away leaving behind a legacy of dedication, kindness, and loyalty to her family and friends. Raised in Des Plaines, Illinois, she was the eldest of six children and embraced her role with warmth and leadership.

In 1970, Kathy moved to Boone, North Carolina. She would call Boone home for decades, where she built a life with her husband Steve, a professor of Appalachian State University. She soon joined the Appalachian State family herself, becoming a respected professor in the Political Science/Criminal Justice department. Over her 30-year career she was a passionate educator and deeply committed to her students and her field. Her service extended beyond the classroom as she dedicated her time to many department committees and assumed the role of interim department chairman. She was known for her collaborative spirit and unwavering integrity.

A proud and active member of St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church, Kathy enriched the parish community with her musical talent by playing the organ and volunteering on multiple committees. Her generous nature was evident to everyone who knew her. She had a unique ability to make friends wherever she went.

Kathy's loyalty also extended to her favorite Chicago sports teams, her beloved Cubs and Bears. She was a constant and vocal fan with a contagious enthusiasm. Above all, Kathy was a pillar of support for her family and friends. Her kindness and unwavering support will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Kathy's life was a testament to her generous spirit and her dedication to the people and causes in which she loved. She will be remembered for her easy smile, her passionate commitments and the deep and lasting relationships that she nurtured throughout her life.

Kathy is survived by her daughter, Patty S. Whitaker (Brad); son, Joseph J. Simon (Amy); two grandchildren: Dean Simon and Mallory Simon; brothers and sisters in law: John Littwin (Barbara), Robert Littwin (Peggy), Timothy Littwin (Gail), Joseph Littwin (Pam), Carol Littwin and numerous special nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents, Kathy was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Stephen J. Simon and brother James Littwin.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm, Monday, October 27, 2025, at Bethlehem Baptist Church, 8400 Poole Rd, Knightdale, NC.

The family will receive friends and relatives immediately following the service in the church fellowship hall.

Graveside service will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at Mount Lawn Memorial Park & Gardens, 521 Old East King Street, Boone, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Kathy's memory to the "Dementia Alliance of North Carolina" https://dementianc.org/