Janat Jaclynn Ash

Janat Jaclynn (Austin) Simmons Ash was born on October 24, 1938, in Austin, Texas, the daughter of Victor Leon and Edna Lynn (Dickard) Austin. She passed from this life on July 24, 2025, in Nacogdoches, Texas, at the age of 86.

She graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in San Antonio in 1956 and earned a BBA in General Business from the University of Texas at Austin in 1961. She worked as an accountant for USAA Insurance Company and later managed her father’s CPA and law office in Austin, Texas. Janat was a member of the First Christian Church in Nacogdoches and the Delta Zeta National Sorority.

Janat enjoyed playing tennis, music, bridge, and reading. She was a hard worker, known for her generosity and fun-loving spirit. She was active with Newcomers and Friends in Nacogdoches and supported numerous charities, including local animal shelters and friends in need. One of her fondest memories was ranching in Wimberley, Texas.

Janat married A.L. Simmons in 1960, the father of her children. They divorced in 1985, and he preceded her in death in 2004. She later married Edgar Eugene Ash in 1987.

She is survived by her husband, Edgar Ash; two sons, Austin Layne Simmons and his wife Elizabeth, and Arthur Todd Simmons and his wife Anjie; grandchildren Morgan, Austin, Kendel, Katie, and Trinity Simmons; Kaley and Taryn Davis; and Stephen, Erin, and Paige Ash.

Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors are in charge of arrangements.