Etta Marie Simmons

Etta was a beloved and cherished presence whose gentle spirit and kind heart were felt by all who knew her. With steady faith and a thoughtful way of caring for others, she gave of herself selflessly and generously—welcoming family with warmth and making room for people in both her home and her life. Over time, her resilience shone through in new ways, and in her later years Etta came more outspoken and witty, while remaining devoted to those she loved.

She moved to Middleburg from Ohio largely to be closer to her daughter and some of her Florida family, and she also appreciated the comfort of Florida’s sunshine compared with Ohio’s winter cold and snow. Etta's adventurous and brave spirit was reflected in the life she built and the memories she treasured, especially in the years spent traveling to warm vacation spots. Etta and Forest spent the last ten years traveling of their 53 years of marriage. They met as neighbors, both living on nearby farms, and together they built a life marked by devotion and enduring love. Their home was known for open doors and the simple, meaningful joy of being together with family.

A lifelong source of inspiration to those around her, Etta found quiet happiness in puzzles, sewing and embroidery, painting and crafting, and crossword puzzles—pastimes that reflected her patient, gentle nature and her thoughtful attention to detail. Her faith remained an important part of her life, and she was connected to Black Creek Methodist Church in Middleburg, Florida, and Manchester United Methodist Church in Akron, Ohio.

She was preceded in death by her loving and devoted husband Forest Simmons in 2014, siblings, Marjorie Louise Shepard, Bill Noll, Robert Noll, and Randy Noll; her son, Randall Lee Simmons; and her grandson, David Lee Simmons.

Etta is survived by her daughter, Tina Marie Simmons, and her great grandson, Jaxson David Simmons. She is also survived by her siblings Richard Noll (wife Alene Noll), Ronnie Noll (wife Cheryl Noll), and Gary Noll (wife Stephanie Noll); and by her sisters-in-law Pat Noll, Betty Noll, Cora Frederick, Dottie Barclay, and Bev McDowell. She will also be remembered with affection by her good and longtime friends, Sandra Moody, and Ann-Marie & Gino Quarello.

A Funeral service and committal service will be held 2:00 pm Friday, October 2, 2026, at Northlawn Memorial Gardens, 4724 state road Peninsula, Ohio 44264.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American cancer society at www.cancer.org