ATHENS, Ohio –– It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Myra Kathleen Rose Grippa, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, educator, and philanthropist. Kathy to everyone who knew her, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family, Monday, March 10, 2025 after a short but fierce battle with brain cancer.
Kathy was born on July 2, 1945 to Richard Rose and Mary Louise (Brockey) Rose in Norman, Oklahoma. Raised in Chanute, Kansas she graduated from Chanute High in 1963, then continued her education at University of Kansas, culminating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 1967.
She moved to San Jose, California in 1968 where she earned a Master Degree in Nursing from San Jose State and quickly became a tenured full professor on the nursing faculty there. In 1975, she entered the doctoral program at Stanford University where she met the love of her life and married, on November 12, 1977, Paul Grippa. Juggling family life, which eventually grew to nine children, full time faculty duties at San Jose State and her studies at Stanford she earned her PhD in 1986.
In order to get close to extended family, the whole clan relocated to Athens in 1986, where she joined the faculty at Ohio University to begin a 27 year career in the School of Nursing, retiring, as Professor Emeritus in 2013.
Kathy was a trailblazer in the field of nursing education. She served as the Dean of the School of Nursing, where she oversaw the RN to BSN program and was instrumental in founding the Master’s Nursing program, shaping the future of countless nursing professionals. Even after retirement, her passion for teaching never wavered, and she continued to mentor and educate as a professor for several years. Her work not only elevated the standards of nursing education but also empowered generations of caregivers to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.
Beyond her professional achievements, Kathy lived a life filled with love, generosity, and service. Aside from being an avid reader, she found joy in knitting, going to the beach, cooking, playing cards, and watching programs with her husband. But above all, she treasured time with her grandchildren, creating cherished memories that will live on forever.
Kathy’s heart for giving was unparalleled. She dedicated herself to supporting food banks, shelters, and countless charities, ensuring that the most vulnerable—both people and animals—were cared for. She believed that no act of kindness was too small and that everyone deserved dignity and compassion. Her unwavering generosity made the world a better place, and her selflessness will continue to inspire all who knew her.
She is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, Paul Grippa, and her cherished children: Lauren Lesnak Grippa (Randy Stebleton), Shade, OH, Sarah Grippa, Athens, OH, Lydia Patterson, Athens, OH, Caiti (Eric) Dougnaglo, Herndon, VA, Bekah Grippa (Ian Davis), Los Angeles, CA, Greg (Rachel) Grippa, Athens, OH, and Ric Grippa of Olympia, WA. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Sebastian Grippa, Amina Patterson, Karim Dougnaglo, Lilly Grippa, Imani Dougnaglo, Issa Dougnaglo, Ace Davis, Leonardo Grippa, Love Davis, and Lucas Grippa. She also leaves behind her dear brother, Richard Rose, of Pittsburgh, Kansas along with extended family and countless friends who were touched by her warmth and generosity.
Kathy was preceded in death by her beloved children, Mike Grippa, Matthew Grippa, and Carolyn Grippa, as well as her dear sister, Charlene Rose. She is also reunited with her parents, Mary Louise Brockey Rose, her adopted mother Delores Ashcroft Rose, and her father Richard Rose.
A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to honor the remarkable woman she was. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to Athens County Dog Shelter or a local charity of your choice, continuing her lifelong mission of helping those in need. Cremation arrangements are with Jagers & Sons Funeral Home. Please share a memory, a note of condolence or sign the online register at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.
Kathy’s love, strength, and generosity will remain in our hearts forever. She was a beacon of kindness, a champion for the underserved, and a devoted matriarch whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Ohio Health hospice staff, nurses, and aides who provided unwavering care, comfort, and guidance during this difficult time. Your support and compassion meant the world to us, helping us navigate this journey with love and dignity. We are forever grateful for your kindness and dedication.
“Oh how sweet is time for allowing you and I to live in the same lifetime.” – Unknown
