Obituary of Helen Fay Simmons

Helen F. Simmons, 93, died at peace on Monday, December 4, 2023. 

Her family gathered on December 10, 2023 for a graveside service in her hometown, Old Glory, Texas.

Helen Fay  Simmons led a remarkable  life that was deeply rooted in her hometown of Old Glory, Texas where she was born at home on May 14th, 1930 to Beno and Ola Herttenberger. She was the cherished little sister of Roy, Malcolm, Jerry,  Don, and her brother, Jean, who made the ultimate sacrifice serving our country during WWII, a testament to the family's deep patriotism.

Helen's heart always belonged to Old Glory where she spent her formative years. Her life took a momentous turn when an Oklahoma boy rolled into town working in the oil industry.  Helen married the love of her life Jack Simmons on November 22nd, 1953. They were married for 47 years until  his passing  in 1999. Together, they established their home in Fort Worth, Texas, and were blessed with five children: daughter Suzie and  four boys, Jack, Jerry, Jeff and Joel.  

Helen served as a greeter for many years at Alta Mesa Church of Christ which endeared her to many with her special gift of making everyone feel as if  they had known her forever. Her love for singing shone through her participation in the Alta Mesa Chorale, culminating in a memorable performance at Carnegie Hall. Sports held a special place in her heart, influenced by her numerous brothers and sons. Her passion for cooking led her to venture into a catering business, as well as volunteering to cook for Neighborhood Needs every Tuesday. Helen found joy in spending time with her large family including her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Helen's love of people was evident in all of her friendships, including a 40-year tenure in the same bridge club.  She loved to travel and was known for her quick wit and infectious laughter. Helen approached life with a remarkable sense of humor, which endeared her to all who knew her.

Helen’s legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the memories she created. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Helen Simmons is survived by:

Son Jack Simmons and wife Lori , grandchildren JT Simmons wife Rebecca; Shelby Simmons

Son Jerry Simmons and wife Delyn, grandchildren Joshua Simmons and wife Sarah; Cody Simmons

Son Jeff Simmons and wife Diane, grandchildren Lauren Simmons; Ryan Simmons

Son Joel Simmons and wife Elizabeth, grandson Austin Arnold and wife Annie

Grandchildren Lisa Dewey and husband Steve; Michael Dewey and wife Tina

Many great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband Jack Simmons and daughter Suzie Simmons Dewey. Also by her parents, five brothers and their wives.

Her Sons, Jack, Jerry, Jeff, and Joel, wish to extend Helen's spiritual gift of hospitality by inviting you to a Reunion Celebration at the Altamesa Church of Christ, 4600 Altamesa Blvd., on January 21st, 2024.  We will receive guests at 1:00 p.m. with a Celebration Service at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, Helen's best work was devotion to Neighborhood Needs, c/o Altamesa Church of Christ, 4600 Altamesa Blvd. FW TX 76133, and NewDay Services for Children & Families, 6816 Camp Bowie West Blvd., FW TX 76107.