Murdel Simmons

Murdel Simmons was born on August 29, 1943, in the parish of Saint Elizabeth, Jamaica. She was one of twelve children raised by her parents, James White and Vila Williams. From her earliest years, Murdel exhibited a remarkable sense of empathy, an unwavering commitment to helping others, and a deep rooted passion for caregiving qualities that would become the cornerstone of her life’s journey.

After completing her education in Jamaica, Murdel set her sights on a noble calling: nursing. With courage and determination, she relocated to England to pursue this dream. It was during her time abroad that she met Joe Simmons, a dedicated airman serving in the United States Air Force. Their union blossomed into a lifelong partnership, and together they embarked on a global journey, living on various military bases around the world. No matter where their travels took them, Murdel remained resolute in her pursuit of a nursing career, balancing the demands of military life with her professional aspirations.

Eventually, their travels brought them to Tampa, Florida, where Murdel continued her education while working as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Her perseverance and tireless dedication culminated in a significant milestone in 1990, when she successfully passed her medical board examinations and earned the title of Registered Nurse. This achievement marked the beginning of a distinguished career in healthcare, during which she served with compassion and excellence at several esteemed institutions, including Tampa General Hospital, Memorial Hospital, and St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Over the course of more than 35 years, Murdel touched countless lives through her work, embodying the highest standards of care, kindness, and professionalism. Her retirement was not merely the end of a career it was the celebration of a legacy defined by service, love, and unwavering strength.

Murdel’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She is fondly remembered by her devoted son, Trevor Simmons (Shereka Simmons); her cherished daughter, Joyce Perry; and her beloved grandson, Treven Simmons. Her legacy also continues through her surviving sisters( Beatrice Davis, Alberta Reynolds, Beverlyn Thompson, Colleen McKnight, Dolcie Hitchman) many nieces, nephews, and extended family. Murdel’s nurturing spirit, quiet resilience, and boundless generosity will forever serve as a source of inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.

Her absence leaves a profound void, yet her presence will be eternally felt in the lives she enriched. Murdel Simmons will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered, her life a testament to compassion, strength, and grace.

A visitation will be held at Blount & Curry Life Event Center, located at 605 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33609, United States, on November 18, 2025, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The funeral service will follow at the same location from 1:00 pm. A burial will take place at 3:00 pm at Garden of Memories.