Lela Prue Simmons' Obituary
Lela Prue Simmons, 103, passed away Saturday, January 18, 2025 at Centerville Specialty Care.
Born on January 16, 1922 in Unionville, Missouri, Prue was the daughter of William and Fanny (Albright) Fullhart. Always an outgoing personality, Prue was active in many activities throughout her life. While in high school, she was All-State forward on the girls' basketball team. In addition to Prue's sporting talents, she also achieved academic awards and graduated valedictorian of the Class of 1939.
On November 4, 1942, Prue married Chester Simmons of Darby, Iowa in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Their happy union blessed them with three children: Linda, Judy, and Bruce. Chester and Prue spent most of their married life in Mystic, Iowa, working together and rearing their family. In addition to being a homemaker, Prue worked as a bookkeeper, a CNA, assistant librarian at Indian Hills Community College, and a nursery care worker at the Methodist Church where she enjoyed caring for two generations of children before finally retiring.
Prue loved being on the move. She was a member of the Centerville Seventh-day Adventist Church where she actively served in various church offices, social activities, and community outreach. Over the years, Prue volunteered for Meals on Wheels, Respite Care, and the Lord's Cupboard-even into her 90's.
In her free time, Prue enjoyed gardening and cooking and would make applesauce, canned pears, grape juice and much more. Some of her signature dishes are fondly remembered (and missed) at local church dinners. Prue was fond of watching basketball, football and Wheel of Fortune. She loved to read, especially her Bible. Prue attended church every Sabbath until the final few months of her life. Even though she had sight and hearing challenges, she insisted on attending church services, and her example of faithfulness remains an inspiration to fellow church members.
Prue took great pride in her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. She always made sure her family was healthy both physically and spiritually. In 2003, shortly after celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary, Chester passed away. Heartbroken, Prue honored her husband's memory, by faithfully donating to Veterans causes.
Left to cherish Prue's memory are her daughter, Judy (Terry) Morris; daughter-in-law Deborah Simmons; seven grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild; as well as extended family and friends.
Prue was preceded in death by her daughter, Linda Gail Simmons, August 31, 1965; her husband, Chester Simmons, January 19, 2003; her son Bruce Simmons, December 9, 2020; as well as several extended family members and friends.
Per Prue's wishes, cremation has been accorded, and private family graveside services will be held. Memorials in honor of Prue may be made to The Lord's Cupboard and can be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home ATTN: Simmons family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome.
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