Karen Simler Robards

Karen Simler Robards, 82, passed away on Thursday, November 28, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

A graveside service will be held at noon on Monday, December 2, 2024, at Llano Cemetery. A memorial service will follow at 2:00 PM at St. Stephen's Church in Amarillo, with Pastor Travis Bennett officiating.

Karen was born on January 20, 1942, to Frank and Kathryne Simler in Houston, Texas. She grew up in the Texas Hill Country, in the small town of Kerrville, where she found joy playing outdoors beneath the live oaks and splashing in the Guadalupe River.

Karen attended Texas A&I University in Kingsville, where she earned a degree in elementary education. It was there that she met her husband, Bill Robards, and they were married in 1964. As a military family they had the opportunity to live in various locations around the world. In 1979, Bill and Karen settled in Amarillo, where they would remain for the rest of their lives.

Karen was a teacher for over 30 years. Many of those years she happily spent teaching first grade at St. Andrews School. Many children can say that Mrs. Robards gave them the most important gift of all-she taught them how to read and instilled in them a love of learning.

Karen's faith was central to her life, and she lived by the verse James 2:14-18, demonstrating through her actions the importance of serving others with love and commitment. She was deeply involved in her church, St. Stephen's, where she was an active volunteer. Karen dedicated much of her time to Snack Pack for Kids and the Amarillo Botanical Gardens. She also enjoyed spending her Wednesdays cooking for others at church, packing Operation Christmas Child boxes, and supporting others through her SWIM circle.

Karen was a Texas Rangers fan and never missed a televised game. She loved spending time with her grandchildren. She was the best MeMe.

Karen is preceded in death by her beloved husband Bill of 42 years. She is survived by her daughter Laurie and husband Tim of Canyon, and her grandchildren Tyler Gilliland of Houston, Ben Gilliland and wife Katie, and great-grandchildren Addison and Sam, all of Canyon. She is also survived by her son Larry Robards and wife Lisa of Amarillo, and grandchildren Lillie and Lauren.

The family suggests donations in Karen's memory to Snack Pack for Kids (2406 SW 3rd Ave, Amarillo, TX 79106) or to the Amarillo Botanical Gardens/Monet Garden (1400 Streit Drive, Amarillo, TX 79106).