Kathy Kay Carroll Cropper

Kathleen “Kathy” Kay Carroll Cropper, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on September 9, 2025, at the age of 82 in Delta, Utah. She was born on September 13, 1942, to Kenneth Delmus and Gwen Steele Carroll in Tooele, Utah. She married the love of her life, Gaylen Ekins Cropper, on November 19, 1960, in Hinckley, Utah. Their eternal commitment was later solemnized in the Provo Utah Temple in 1994.

Kathy devoted her life to her family, her faith, and her love of genealogy. Her family was her greatest priority, and she was happiest when gathered together with them.

She spent many years working in the purchasing department at IPSC, where she was known for her dedication and attention to detail. She never complained, always carried an optimistic outlook on life, and kept her sense of humor to the very end.

A devoted Utah Jazz fan, Kathy loved cheering for her team almost as much as she loved cheering for her children and grandchildren. She was our greatest supporter, always encouraging and celebrating even the smallest victories. She loved beginning her day with Wordle—it was something she especially enjoyed sharing with her grandkids. She was classy, kind, and deeply cherished by all those who knew her.

Kathy never said “goodbye,” only “see you later,” and was known for her special “hand hugs”.

Kathy is survived by her loving husband: Gaylen Cropper; and their six children: Rich Cropper (Lori), Sandra Topham (Tim), Laurie Schmanski (Todd), Wendy Jo Jensen, Courtney Cropper (Denise), and Casey Cropper (Carrie). She is also survived by her brother: Howard Carroll (Mary); and by many grandchildren whom she adored and who brought her immense joy. She was preceded in death by her parents: Kenneth and Gwen Carroll; and brother: Marlowe Carroll.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, September 13, at 11:00 a.m., at the Hinckley LDS Chapel, 188 North Main St. Viewings will be held on Friday evening, 6:30-8:00 p.m., at the Nickle Mortuary, 190 South Center St, Delta; and Saturday at the church, 9:30-10:40 a.m., prior to the service. Those unable to attend may view the recorded video of the service. Link will be posted with her obituary at www.nicklemortuary.com following the funeral. Interment will follow at the Deseret Cemetery.