Frances E. Simmons

A viewing will be held Tuesday, November 19, from 5:00-7:00 pm, at Olinger Crown Hill Cemetery, 7777 W. 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado. Funeral services are scheduled on Wednesday, November 20, at 10:30 am at Mayflower Congregational Church, 3001 S. Acoma St., Englewood, Colorado.

Frances was born in Montrose, Colorado in 1923 to William and Blanche Rogers where she grew up on a farm with her sisters. Her early education took place in a one-room schoolhouse. She then lived in a boarding house to attend Montrose High School. During World War II, she moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she graduated from Blair Business College. She met Walter Simmons at a USO dance in Colorado Springs where they later married before he was deployed for his military service. Frances and Walter had two daughters, Sharon and Debra, and lived most of their lives in the Englewood area. She spent the last ten years in Arvada.

Frances retired from Gates Rubber Company where she worked in the engineering department as an administrative assistant. Following her retirement, she enjoyed serving as the office administrator at the Mayflower Congregational Church in Englewood, Colorado.

She was an exceptionally kind and caring person who always enjoyed humor. She was a deeply faithful person who was a quiet inspiration to her family and friends. She always put her family first. For many years, she cooked a Sunday family dinner, usually roast beef with carrots, onions and potatoes. The Colorado mountains were dear to her and taking trips in the camper with Walter and the grandkids was one of her favorite activities. She also enjoyed playing the piano and gardening. Her home was filled with beautiful plants. She was always environmentally conscious and composted before it became popular again.

Her husband and her three sisters preceded her in death. Surviving Frances are her two daughters, Sharon Pickett (Dexter) and Debra Wycoff (Tom). She is also survived by her grandchildren: Sharon’s family includes James Penton, April Zaura (Jan), Christopher Pickett, Jonathan Pickett, Stacy Johnson (Colt); Deb’s children are Kirsten Church (Zac) and Reed Look. Her family also includes grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren from the blended families as well as many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Mayflower Congregational Church.