Veta M. Simmons' Obituary
Veta M. Simmons, 94, of DeRidder, LA, passed from this life on Sunday, May 12, 2024, at her home with her loving family by her side. Veta, the daughter of Harvey and Elma Green Matthis, was born on March 24, 1930, in Richards, Texas.
Visitation will begin Saturday May 18, 2024, from 10:00 AM until the time of the service which begins at 12:00 PM, at Grace Church in DeRidder, LA with Rev. George Lee Glass, pastor, Rev. Ralph Sikes, and Bro. Jerome Hayes officiating. Interment will follow at Beauregard Cemetery in DeRidder, LA. Funeral arrangements under the care and direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder.
Mrs. Veta Simmons was a woman whose life was a testament to love, generosity, and unwavering devotion. She lived a life enriched by her love for family, faith, and community. Alongside her husband, Sheldon, they explored the beauty of the United States, from the rugged landscapes of Alaska and the Yukon to the serene vistas of Canada's British Columbia and Northwest Territories, creating treasured memories that would last a lifetime.
Her devotion to Christ and her family was unwavering. She shared her faith through her actions, teaching kindergarten and Sunday school for eight years at First Baptist Church in Jennings, Louisiana, where her gentle guidance and nurturing spirit left a lasting impact on the lives of those she touched. She also devoted her service to her church, playing the piano and lending her voice to the choir. Her passion for gardening blossomed as she served as the president of the garden club in Jennings for twelve years, and she worked and served her community for 21 years at Beauregard Memorial Hospital.
Beyond her talents and achievements, Mrs. Simmons will also be remembered for her sharp wit and infectious sense of humor. Her quick quips and humor kept those around her laughing, while her kind heart and willingness to lend a helping hand endeared her to all who knew her.
Though Mrs. Veta Simmons may have departed from this earthly realm, her legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched. May her memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew her, and may her life continue to inspire us to live with warmth, grace, and Christ in our hearts.
Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Joanna Smith of DeRidder; grandson, Brad Nesbitt and wife Stacey; granddaughter, Daisy Carmona and husband Daniel; son-n-law, Mickey Cooley; six great-grandchildren, ten great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by her parents, Harvey and Elma Matthis; husband, Sheldon Simmons; son, Gareth A. Simmons; daughter, Shelda Lyn Cooley; one great-great-grandchild.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Brian St. Cyr, Steven DeHart, Daniel Carmona, Seth Nesbitt, Mickey Cooley and Nathanial Harriman.
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