Doni was born in Los Angeles, CA on February 26, 1936, to Lealga Spears and Harry Simmons.
Moving to Delano at a young age, she attended Ellington, Fremont, and graduated from Delano High School.
Later Doni met and married Conrad Beaird. To this union 9 children were born.
She was a resident of Delano for over 70 years. Her life’s mission was to help others through both public and volunteer services. Working as a Community Center Activity Leader, Day Camp Supervisor, and Instructional Assistant for disabled children. She mentored young adults and at-risk youth through recreational activities.
Her compassion and genuine concern for humanity has and will always inspire many.
In 1969 Doni started her career at Porterville State Hospital as a Food Service Worker, retiring in 1991. She continued to be active in the community and served in several outreaches in her church (HD Church) until her health began to decline.
She is survived by her children: Patricia Cain, Tanya Beaird and Shanette Martinez of Delano, CA; Melinda Valley, Vivicia Geivet and Brenda Bradford (Jimmie) of McFarland, CA; Conrad Beaird, Jr. (Sheila) of Escalon, CA; and Darrell Beaird (Inger) of Alameda, CA.
Sisters: Dorothy LaBranch of Los Angeles, CA; Moddie Carrillo of Bakersfield, CA; and Barbara Reyes of Delano, CA. Brothers: Robert Simmons (Hilda) and Michael Webster of Los Angeles, CA., and Charlie Williams Jr. (Virgie) of McFarland, CA; and an aunt: Lula Mae Fowler of Los Angeles, CA.
She is proceeded in death by her Mother Lealga Spears and Father Harry Simmons, Stepfather, Charlie Williams, Sr., 2 daughters: Beverly Jean Beaird and Rosa Ozuna. Sister: Myrna Loretta Hunter. Brothers: Sylvester Simmons and John Henry Williams, Sr., and Son-in-Law Benny Martinez, Sr.
Doni is also survived by 67 grandchildren: 75 great grandchildren and 10 great, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She also has extended families, children, grandchildren that saw her as Mama Doni or Grandma Doni.
Everyone who knew Doni loved her dearly and will always remember her Faith, Grace, Wit, Smile, loving heart and her willingness to help others.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.delanomortuary.com for the Beaird family. Services entrusted to Delano Mortuary, a Dignity Memorial provider.
