Vanda Simmons

aVnda Bernette Simmons was born to the union of Jessie Mae &  William R. Simmons on May 25, 1962,  in Mobile, Alabama. She departed this life for  eternal rest on  Sunday, August 29, 2021.  Vanda was preceded in death by her father, William R.  Simmons, II; brothers, William R. Simmons, III, Phillip A. Simmons and Brady Mitchell and nephew, Walter J. Hammond, III.

Vanda was educated in the Mobile County School System and graduated from Mattie T. Blount High School in 1980. While attending high school, she sang in the chorus and became a member of the girl’s basket ball team. Upon graduating, she landed her first job in the City of Prichard, Mayor’s Office. She was most recognized for her exceptional administrative work and typing skills.  Vanda was extremely gifted in the talents of            singing, sketching, culinary arts, and cosmetology. Her passion for styling hair, led her to work along side her big brother, “Bill” Simmons at Special Effects Hair Salon for several  years.  

Vanda will be most remembered for her comedic character, huge personality, sense of humor and love for the Lord.  Any person who crossed her path felt loved and she never met a stranger. She enjoyed playing spades and would  challenge anyone to a good card game. She was devoted to her family “deck”.  She was “The queen of  hearts” to her children; “Ace of spades” to her friends and “The joker’s wild” to her family. She was quick to cut any suit that threaten the “deck”. 

She leaves to cherish her memories; Mother, Jessie Mae Simmons; Daughter, Jessica L. Simmons; Son, Kendal S. Simmons; Grandson, Darius I. Simmons; her sisters,         Constance S. Hammond (Walter), Wanda E. Simmons, Rosemary Shedrick (Gregory); Keetha Moore and Denise Moore; nephews, William Simmons IV, Rodney Hammond, Garrett Shedrick; nieces, Katrina Watson, Latoya Hammond, Jarmelya (Charles) Smith and Rachel Shedrick; great niece, Takeria Chapman; great nephew, Kameron Watson and Jaylen Todd and a host of other relatives and friends.

Vanda will also be remembered by what she would often say, “It is well with my soul!!!”  And, in the words of her favorite song by Marvin Sapp, she “Never  would have made it with YOU!”  

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