Sherlie Dianne Simmons

She was born December 1, 1932 to Ralph M. and Rosemary Mix Emerson in Dallas, TX. Dianne attended Woodrow Wilson High School and upon graduation in 1950, ventured out to New York City to attend Parsons School of Design. Working with Nena Claiborne in Dallas for over 20 years, Dianne then established her own Interior Design company, working for many influential Dallas families and corporations.

Dianne was a remarkable, energetic person who loved family and friends. Upon marrying Allen Brice Simmons in 1956, they raised three children in Farmers Branch: Kimberly Simmons Wisdom (Wade Wisdom), Kristy Simmons Glorfeld (Chris Ronan), who proceeds her in death, and Gregory Michael Simmons (Anke Steinheimer Simmons). Beloved Grandmother to Skylar Ian Wisdom. Even after divorcing, Dianne and Brice remained friends, until the passing of Brice in 2010.

As early families of Mary Immaculate Church, “Sherlie” Dianne and Brice supported the growth and development of the Church and School, along with their lifelong friends the Ronan, Brandt, Fournier, Gutierrez and Powell Families. Dianne was a lifelong, devout Catholic who cherished her faith.

Her curiosity of people and places led Dianne to travel the world, first with her closest friend, Katie Ronan, then with dear friends, Bob Williams, Marialice and Randy Garrett. She visited Europe, Scotland, China, Jamaica, Russia and her favorite, Africa on two Safaris. She survived Hurricane Hugo in a hotel hallway in Puerto Rico in 1993.

Dianne always made time to visit her only grandchild, Skylar, and to be a part of his life. She attended birthday parties, school plays and graduations. Skylar particularly remembers their trip to Disney World, glamping in Glenrose and swimming in Mimi’s pool.

Dianne always said the secret to a long life is to “keep moving” and having friends of all ages. She made friends wherever she went, staying in touch with family, friends all over the world and fellow travelers. Her namesake, Dianne Arnett Becker and sister, Sharon Mentesana, have been great supporters and visitors.

Many charities around Dallas benefitted from Dianne’s support: The Humane Society as a Foster pet parent, The USO welcoming families and military, Ronald McDonald House and the Arboretum of Dallas.

Dianne leaves behind a legacy of kindness and selflessness that is unparalleled. Witty until the end, her 91 years were a testament to a life well-lived and a model for all of us.