Barbara was born to Daniel Henry and Cora Lee Edwards on February 12, 1934 in McCamey, TX. She married Raymond P. Simmons Jr. in 1954 and the two built a life full of perseverance, simple joys, an abundance of children, and so very few dull moments that it carried them through the next 54 years together.
Down to earth and endlessly warm hearted, Barbara preferred to be called Bobbie. She rarely met a stranger she couldn't quickly turn into family with her perpetual Southern charm and mandatory hugs. She loved the Lord and attending church, taking the gospel to heart in a way few others do. She loved wholeheartedly, forgave easily, supported numerous charities, and never turned anyone away.
Bobbie was synonymous with hugs, and she gave the best hugs around. If you were sad, you needed a hug. If you were happy, you needed a hug. If you were just walking by... well, you might not need a hug but you were going to get one anyway. She'd even offer to pay you in hugs whenever possible, and you'd be a fool not to take her up on it since the exchange rate for a Bobbie hug equaled out to pure happiness and a goofy smile you wouldn't be able to shake for the rest of the day.
She was the kind of woman who could clean a fish, fix your truck's fuel line, cook up some of the best chicken and dumplings you've ever had, and still make time to enjoy her many Grandkids.
She loved card games and was perfectly okay with occasionally cheating to get the upper hand. She was a skilled gardener and a loyal sports fan. Whether it was football with her beloved Cowboys or Tiger Woods dominating a round of golf, she'd be happily cheering them on... but no professional team or athlete stood a chance against the blatant favoritism she had for any sport her kids, grandkids, or great grandkids decided to play.
Baseball, football, or racing. It didn't matter what they were into or even if they were any good at it, their sport and team was her new favorite. And you'd be wise to keep any negative opinions about their talent or ability to yourself. (Same went for the Cowboys if you were really smart.)
Above all other earthly treasures, Bobbie loved and cherished her family. Her children and grandchildren were a constant source of joy and pride, and her extended family grew to near epic proportions over the years. This suited her just fine since Bobbie loved everyone, and everyone loved Bobbie. Her kindness and welcoming spirit never wavered and it's this legacy; a legacy of hope, abundant affection, and constant appreciation for the blessings of family that she leaves behind.
She will be greeted in heaven by her husband Raymond P. Simmons Jr. and her memory will live on with her sisters Helen Lanser and Norma Hubbard as well as her children Denise Dabney, Joyce & Steve Guyette, Kenneth & Sandy Simmons, Perry Simmons & Donna McGinnis, Lonnie & Teri Simmons, Tommy & Tammy Simmons, Dennis & Vicky Simmons and don't forget the 33 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, 4 great great grandchildren, and many nieces & nephews. It is well with her soul.
