Esther Pearl Simmons

Esther Pearl Simmons, 90, departed this life on December 26, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio. She was born on April 5, 1934, on Yonge’s Island, South Carolina.  She and her husband, Julian Simmons, moved to Columbus, Ohio in 1955.

From 1979 to 2013, she pioneered the social services industry. She dedicated many years of service as a licensed community-based residential facility provider for adults with developmental disabilities and youth in foster care. She touched the lives of many within her care and demonstrated great compassion. She was a warm and loving individual who loved life.  She found joy in preparing meals for her family and friends. Her life was deeply rooted in her faith, and she enjoyed worshiping at the Church of Christ on Brentnell Avenue. Her commitment to her family and friends was unwavering.

Queen Esther is predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Janie Jenkins; her spouse of 65 years, Elder Julian Simmons; daughter, Deborah Simmons; brother, Isaiah Jenkins; and sisters, Theresa Jenkins Grant, Albertha Jenkins Clark, Josephine Jenkins, and Celestine Jenkins Stukes.

She leaves to cherish her memories: her children, Don Simmons, Judy (Lloyd) Frazier, Julian Simmons (Vanessa), Gwen Simmons-Fells, and Mark Simmons; grandchildren, Derek A. Simmons, Derrick L. Simmons, Julian B. Simmons, Roderick A. Simmons, Nigel (Ashley) Frazier, Kristen D. Fells, Jordan R. Fells, Dana M. Frazier, Justin S. Simmons (Rick), Dr. Jasmine B. Simmons, Monique L. Frazier, and Amari J. Simmons; great- grandchildren, Liam, Maddison, Brooklynn, Braylen, Tristan, Aaliyah, Jordyn, Anthony, Kengi, Lamartia, Victoria, Jaedon, Tyree, Kiari, and Brilei; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Sister Esther Simmons’ life and legacy will continue to be celebrated by all who knew and loved her.

“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him.”  I Thessalonians 4:13-14

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