Anita Rose Simmons

Anita Rose Simmons, 66, of Gun Barrel City, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. Born in Dallas on February 28, 1959, Anita was the beloved daughter of Ernest Kenneth Simmons and Rosemary Cherie Lucas Simmons.

Anita spent her early years in Dallas before moving with her family to Canton in 1974. She grew up alongside her siblings, Rene and Ernie, Jr., and attended Canton High School, graduating in 1977. Always a determined and nurturing soul, Anita put her education on hold to raise her daughter, Jamie. Later, she returned to school and proudly earned her Associate’s degree from Tyler Junior College and the University of Texas at Tyler in 2002.

In June 1979, Anita married James Malcom Pearce, and in 1988, they welcomed their daughter Jamie Rose—Anita’s greatest joy and constant pride. In 2003, she married Brian Duane Easley, and together they shared a love for adventure and travel, creating beautiful memories around the country.

Anita was a creative spirit who found joy in the simple things—gardening, crafting, shopping trips, and most of all, quality time with her loved ones. In 2011, she moved to Gun Barrel City and began transforming her lakeside home into her own little paradise. She often dreamed of living by the ocean in a beach house, soaking in the sound of waves and the warmth of coastal sunshine.

Her proudest title, though, was "Nana." She was absolutely devoted to her two grandchildren, Marshall and Taylor, who brought light and laughter into her life.

Anita was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Cherie Simmons; her sister, Rene Walters; and her brother-in-law, Billy Jo Walters.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, survived by her daughter, Jamie Pearce; grandchildren, Marshall and Taylor; her brother, Ernie Simmons, and his wife, Darla; her nephew, Geron Simmons of Canton, Texas; and many dear aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends whose lives she touched with her kindness and wit.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date to celebrate Anita’s beautiful life.