Juanell Rena Simms

Juanell Rena “Nell” Simms, maiden name Fipps, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, at 4:00 p.m., leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will live on in all who knew her.

Nell was born on August 5, 1960, in Amarillo, Texas. She graduated from Palo Duro High School in 1978. Her journey then carried her through South Dakata, Arizona, Texas, and Oklahoma, where she formed lasting friendships and shared her bright, joyful spirit with everyone she met.

In 2015, she proudly earned her degree in Childhood Development from Ashford University, an accomplishment that reflected her caring heart and love for children. She later worked at Hobby Lobby, Dollar General, FireLake Grocery in McLoud, and Grand Casino in Shawnee, forming meaningful connections everywhere she went.

Nell had a vibrant personality and a joyful spirit. She was friendly, happy, sweet—and just stubborn enough to make her unforgettable. She was a devoted fan of Texas Longhorn football, loved watching NASCAR (especially the M&M’s car), and enjoyed professional wrestling. She cherished attending concerts and listening to music. She found joy in creating diamond art with her stepmother, Linda, and never passed up a competitive game of Uno with her family. Nell especially loved collecting dolls, as well as frog and unicorn keepsakes—treasures that reflected her fun-loving, sentimental, and youthful spirit. She also held a special place in her heart for dogs and cats.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Stephanie Johnston (Tyler), Scott Grimes (Belinda), Casey Booth (Brad) and Rick Castleberry (Kristina); her cherished grandchildren: Rowen, Scarlett, Paige, Shannon, Payton, Alex and Addisen; her niece, Caitlyn Bailey and family; her stepmother, Linda Fipps; and her brothers: Kevin Dewayne Fipps and family, Chris Fipps and family and Kevin Dale Fipps and family.

She was welcomed into eternal rest by her grandparents; her parents, William Frank Fipps Jr. and Eda Lou Fipps; her sister, Pam Bailey; her niece, Candice Gibson; and many other loved ones who went before her.

Nell will be remembered for her laughter, her loyalty to those she loved, and the warmth she carried wherever she went. Her life was one to be celebrated—full of personality, passion and heart.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, 10:00 a.m., at AE Funeral Services Chapel, 603 W. Independence St., Shawnee, Oklahoma 74804.