A graduate of Great Neck North High School, Simmy Dubofsky went on to study at Western Reserve in Cleveland, OH, before earning her BA from Columbia University and her MA in foreign language teaching from Columbia Teachers College. Simmy also spent a summer studying in Lausanne, Switzerland. She told many stories about her year abroad at l’Institut de Touraine, in Tours, France, where she not only perfected her language skills and soaked up the culture, but also gained lifelong friendships. Simmy lived in New York City, Putney, VT and New Haven, CT before returning to Great Neck as Simmy-Lou Atkins, devoted wife of Bob, so they could raise their family.
Through her successful career as a teacher, Simmy-Lou transmitted her passion for learning languages to students of all ages. In addition to her long career as a French and Spanish teacher in the Great Neck Public Schools, she also taught at the local Adult Ed program, at HAFTR, and as a private tutor to generations of local children. Simmy loved exploring foreign cultures, travelling, and meeting new people. In her retirement, she enjoyed unforgettable adventures around the world alongside her loving husband, Bob.
Simmy was vivacious and caring. She took an interest in every person she met, and was always willing to help others.
Deeply loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her, Simmy-Lou Atkins will be sorely missed. May her memory be a blessing always.
