ALLALA, Jo Ann Simmons, age 73, of Middleburg, passed away Friday, December 11, 2020 of heart related issues. She was born June 6, 1947 in Starke, Florida, beloved daughter of the late Ellen Frances Kelly and Joseph Francis Simmons.
Jo Ann began her spiritual journey as a Catholic but found her true calling in the Baptist faith. She was an active member of Hillcrest Baptist Church, participating in many church organizations including the choir and humanitarian groups. She was a devout Christian and dedicated her life to helping others in whatever capacity necessary. She treasured her family and many wonderful friendships. She loved to cook, crochet, swim, read and enjoyed telling stories about her life experiences. Jo Ann was great at giving sound advice as well as making people laugh.
Jo Ann graduated from Andrew Jackson High School in Jacksonville in 1965. She married Richard Daniel Allala on November 22, 1966, at Springfield Baptist Church in Jacksonville and raised two sons together. She also pursued a career in nursing, passing her Registered Nurse Licensing Exam from the Community College of Jacksonville in 1979. In 1983, she received her Perinatal Nurse Internship certificate for Maternal Infant Care from Memorial Medical Center of Jacksonville. She continued her schooling at the University of North Florida where she was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing in 1993. In 1994, she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing for home health care from the University of North Florida, graduating Summa Cum Laude. Between her years working in the hospital followed by her Home Healthcare position, Jo Ann worked in nursing for two decades, receiving many letters from patients and staff indicating their extreme appreciation for her exemplary care. She always went above and beyond with her caring spirit always shining through.
Jo Ann is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Simmons and Ellen and Wilbur Daniels; and life-long friend, Sandi Thomas. She is survived by her companion and former husband, Richard Allala; two sons, Tim Allala of Jacksonville, and Ryan (Angela) Allala of Saint Augustine; three grandchildren, Timmy Allala, Jacob Allala, and Ellen Allala; brother-in-law, Randle Allala (Mitsue) of Japan; and many wonderful friends and extended family.
A memorial service will be held at 10 AM Friday, December 18, 2020, at Hillcrest Baptist Church at 7673 Collins Road, Jacksonville, FL 32244 with Pastor Chris Pruitt officiating.
As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to the American Heart Association or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements made through HARDAGE-GIDDENS HOLLY HILL FUNERAL HOME at 3601 Old Jennings Road, Middleburg, FL 32068. Please post words of comfort at www.hollyhillfunerals.com.
