Obituary of Frances Lucille Simmons

Frances Lucille Simmons was born on August 25, 1937, in Bennettsville, South Carolina to the late James O and Betty Bostic.

She attended Marlboro County High School and at an early age she fellowship at St. James Baptist Church, she later joined Miracle Temple Apostolic Holiness Church in the early 60’s being a faithful member until death.

On May 29, 1956 she married the late Howard Herman Simmons and they were united for 41 years and to their union had (5) daughters.

Her career comprised mainly of domestic work utilizing the skills she developed at an early age. Oftentimes, being a second mother to not only her siblings but also many of her cousins. She was well known for her chocolate and pineapple/ coconut cakes and when she thought dishes were messy they were actually blessings as notably mentioned by her husband, daughters and at times her church family. She worked briefly at Eastern District High School in New York City, where she flourished assisting teachers and school aides as her job duties included monitoring students, to which she oftentimes reprimanding them (can’t do that now) and her daughters as well. She was a phenomenal mother raising daughters, grandchildren and a cousin that he would later call her “fat mama”. All who knew her could attest to her strong relationship with God The Father, God The Son, and God The Holy Spirit. When prayer was needed for anybody you would find her on bended knees or facing her bedroom wall pleading on behalf of the individual or standing in the spiritual gap for someone who had no relationship with Jesus. Her greatest desire was that anyone she came in contact with would consider knowing “Jesus as their personal Savior” she often told family and strangers alike “How is your walk with the Lord”?

On Sunday, January 13, 2019, after battling a chronic illness for so long, Frances slipped away to be with her Lord and is currently resting comfortably in the arms of Jesus.

Left to cherish her memory is her (4) daughters and (2) son-in laws, Theresa (David), Betty aka (Ronnie), and Paula all living in Brooklyn, NY and Pamela (Michael) living on Staten Island, NY. Her youngest daughter Shameka preceded her in death. There are (3) grandchildren, Julius, Racquel and Michaela and an honorable mention cousin Jarrett. She is survived by (3) siblings Peggy Ruth, and Tommy both residing in Bennettsville, SC and Willie Arthur residing in Bellport, New York, (5) sisters–in- law, Rosa Lee, Geneva, Mary, Sharon and EddieMae. The brothers preceding her in death are James Jr (Sonny boy), Charles and John (JW) with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family and friends.

Her favorite scripture was Psalms: 91 … and so Ma you will continue to dwell in the secret place and abide in the shadow of the Lord forever more.

Your daughters will see you soon.