of Benton, AR
June 7, 1918 - March 12, 2014
Virginia ''Ginny'' Simmons of Benton died March 12, 2014, age 95. Born June 7, 1918, she was predeceased by husband of 71 years, Paul Simmons, and daughter Barbara, both in June 2009. Surviving children are Gary, David, and Mike Simmons and daughter Jean Miller. Visitation hours are 12:00-2:00, Friday, March 14, followed by the funeral service at 2:00, both in the St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in Benton on Alcoa Road.
Ginny was the devoted wife and mother every husband and child should have. She was energetic, adventurous, and an unrelenting optimist, especially about her family. Her home was a depot for anyone needing a friend, a bite to eat, or a place to laugh. Her sense of humor and lust for life inspired her friends and family. Her antics with a life-long friend who became Ethel to Ginny's Lucy were legendary in the family lore. The two found more fun and mischief in a day than most find in a week. To the very end, Ginny loved to read, to work crosswords, to play computer games, and entertain her friends.
In her 71-year marriage to Paul she found her perfect soul mate. An inseparable team, they struggled, laughed, danced, worshiped, and loved while steering their marriage and rearing five children through the Great Depression, WWII, the 60's revolution, the computer culture and the challenges of growing old together. Through it all they remained the center of their family, providing encouragement and a moral compass that remains their legacy.
In spite of a wide variety of physical illnesses throughout her life, Ginny consistently rallied and beat the odds, earning the family's title of ''The Phoenix.'' Her vitality and spirit were her most notable characteristics. Born in the small town of Vergennes, Illinois, she evolved from a rural, roller skating kid to an accomplished woman of the world with remarkable wisdom, compassion, and experience. Her counsel and her presence will be remembered, and are already missed by her friends and family.
So sorry to hear this, Mike you all are in our thoughts and prayers.I can only imagine the memories you have of Ginny and Paul. i know i have a lot myself' Your parents were wonderful people. God Bless!
Stacey Pelton
Condolences.
Our thoughts are with you. We are so sorry for your loss, she was a great lady and will be missed by many.
So very sorry for y'all loss. She's with Barb and pops now. No more pain.
Love y'all.
We are so very sorry for your loss. It was such an honor to know her and a blessing that she took Jessica in as her own grandchild. We are so honored that Clark had the opportunity to be a part of her life and I know Jake and Jessica will have many memories to share with him in her honor.
I'm so Sorry for your loss she was a wonderful person me and Brooke and some great memories with this great woman my thoughts and prayers are with y'all I'm sorry I can't be there today I love each and every one of y'all.
Jeanne, My thoughts are with you. Your mom was a lovely lady.
Aunt Jean, Terri, and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I know that this strong lady was a very important part of your lives. Please know that I will keep you all in my prayers.
She is in a very good place now and will live forever. Loved her very much and will be missed.
She is in a very good place now and will live forever. Loved her very much and will be missed.
Simmons Family:
During my years at St Matthew's I sincerely enjoyed Ginny. I am saddened by her passing. She had a long life & was admired by so many. I know you all will miss her deeply. God Bless you all & give you strength during this difficult time.
As you all know, "your" family was "my" family - the love I had for your parents was so strong - so many wonderful memories with them and of course my best friend, Barb! I miss them all and always will! Peg
We're thinking of you, Jeanne. God bless you and your family.
Mike and family, I was very sorry to learn of the passing of your mother. Based on the dates, you had many, many years with her. My mother will be 95 in several months and her sister just turned 96 and I have enjoyed every, single moment with them. Just wanted you to know I am thinking about you and your family and hoping the many good memories you have will ease the pain of her passing. Best Regards, Barbara Goodman