Norma L. Simmons

Norma L. Simmons, 96 of Centralia, passed away Wednesday, August 26, 2020 at Fireside House Nursing Home in Centralia. Norma was born February 5, 1924 in Centralia, daughter of Clarence Dueker and Fern (Specht) Dueker. She married Verlon Dean Simmons on May 2, 1943 in Centralia and he preceded her in death on May 6, 2012. Norma is survived by a son: Mark Simmons and wife Martha of Mt. Vernon; a daughter: Karin Manning of Springfield; 5 grandchildren: Sheila Pickens and husband Brad of Paxton, Jeff Simmons of Mt. Vernon, Caitlin Darling and husband Mike of Springfield, Ben Manning of California and Miriam Bylsma and husband Mark of St. Peters, MO; 6 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and special friends. Norma was preceded in death by her parents: Clarence and Fern Dueker, one daughter: Candice Kindred of Centralia; one brother: Donald Deuker; and one sister: Laverne Billman. Norma was a devout member of Zion United Church of Christ in Central City, where she was a faithful volunteer for many years, but her passion was caring for her family. She enjoyed hosting Sunday dinners and holidays , spending time with her grandchildren and sending cards to everyone she cared about. She always wanted those in her life to feel loved. She was known to be a record keeper, list maker and photograph taker. She kept memories tucked away in albums, notebooks and scrapbooks throughout her home. She will be dearly missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. Funeral Services for Norma L. Simmons will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, August 30, 2020 at the Hillcrest Lakeside Chapel in Centralia with Pastor Nancy Peebles officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia. The family ask those who are attending to please be mindful of social distancing, wear a mask, and any health precaution necessary to ensure a healthy environment. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Zion United Church of Christ Building Fund and will be received at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to the Simmons Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com

Norma L. Simmons

February 5, 1924 - August 26, 2020