Varian Jacqueline (Simmons) Wilson

Varian Jacqueline Simmons Wilson, age 84, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, after a short illness. Born on July 29, 1941, in Mt. Vernon, Ohio, Varian was raised with love by Lawrence Cooper Simmons and (Doris) Isabelle Crowder Simmons.

Varian was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter, Penni Jo (Wilson) DeJarnett, her sister, Laureen Simmons, and several beloved dogs, donkeys and horses. She is survived by her daughter, Shawna Wilson (Tom Frei); granddaughters, Tiara Wilson, Savannah DeJarnett, and Logan DeJarnett; great-grandchildren, Gary Graham and Angelise Hendricks; and her faithful companion, Alex the Dog.

Varian had a deep and abiding love for animals, especially dogs, horses, and donkeys, who brought her immense joy throughout her life. She was an avid cook, a passionate reader of female-led detective stories, a lover of all things holiday, and devoted to her signature color pink. Varian was a 61-year devoted member and Senior Warden of the Church of St. Edward. She was a 1959 graduate of Mt. Vernon High School and a 1964 graduate of the Riverside White Cross School of Nursing.

Viewing will take place on February 15th from 2:00 pm to 4:00pm at Schoedinger East Funeral Home, 5360 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio. Funeral services will be held on February 16th at 11:00 am at the Church of St. Edward, 214 Fairway Blvd., Columbus, Ohio. A short graveside service and burial will take place 11:00 am on February 17th at Mound View Cemetery in Mt. Vernon, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Church of St. Edward Community Garden or your favorite pet charity are appreciated. Varian's warmth, love for her family, and independent spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May she rest in paradise.