Clara Jane Simmons
Clara Jane Simmons, 82, of Hixson, Tennessee, passed away on Friday, January 5, 2018.
She was born in Lafayette, Ga., on July 8, 1935, to parents, Jesse Glenn Stephenson and Frances Sina (Cook) Stephenson. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Mary Ellen Kinsey; brother, Jesse Glenn Stephenson Jr. “Jack”; sister, Myrtle Jean Rampley; and grandson, Derrick Alexander Holloway.
Those left to cherish her memory include her husband and best friend of 62 years, Jesse T. Simmons; son, Major General Jesse T. Simmons Jr. and wife, Mitzie; daughter, Mayree S. Edwards and husband, Michael; daughter, Kristie S. Holloway; grandchildren, Jesse T. Simmons III “J.T.”, Petty Officer Michael Ross Edwards Jr., Stephanie Wynn Coffeyand husband Dan, and Elizabeth Claire Edwards; great grandson, Truett Stephenson Coffey; and brother, Jerry Stephenson.
Clara was a devoted, loving, caring, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She met the love of her life in 1953, marrying him in 1959. She supported him throughout their many years by traveling with him while he was in the Army and all other work assignments. Her eye for design became apparent in the remodel of all their rental properties, turning each apartment into a home. She loved to travel, visiting all major cities, almost every US state and too many exotic countries to name. She was a great cook, always reading and trying new recipes. She loved to shop, often shopping all day, buying nothing, and still enjoyed it. As a wonderful gardener, she was very successful with all plantings. Clara, a meticulous housekeeper, kept everything clean, organized, and in its place. Finally, she took great pride in all members of the family, was easy going, and loved everyone she met. She was one of a kind.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, Jan. 9, from 6-8 p.m. and Wednesday, Jan. 10, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Chattanooga Funeral Home North Chapel, Hixson. The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 10, in the funeral home chapel with Reverend T. Brannon Bowman officiating.
A private family committal service will take place at a later date in the Chattanooga National Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care of the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com.