Florence Vassar Simon, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, peacefully departed this life on September 28, 2025, in Groves, Texas. Born on January 23, 1930, in Mamou, Louisiana, Florence lived a life full of devotion to her family, friends, and faith.
Having graduated in 1946 from Vinton High School, Florence's early years were marked by hard work and dedication. Her professional journey included pivotal roles at Montgomery Ward and as a secretary at Elliott Machinery. She proudly served as the Cafeteria Manager at Little Flower Elementary, where she became well-known for crafting the most delicious cinnamon rolls, a treat that brought joy to countless children. Florence eventually became the owner of Simco Enterprises, a successful construction and trucking business, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit.
A devoted parishioner of St. Therese, The Little Flower Catholic Church since 1954, Florence was deeply involved in her faith community. She served as a Lector, a member of the Altar Society, and participated in RCIA and the Parish Council. A fixture at prayer gatherings, she was a loving member of the 3 o'clock Rosary Group, embodying her warm and motherly spirit that made everyone feel special.
Florence is remembered as a nurturing and mothering presence to all who knew her, often extending her warmth beyond her own family. Her passions for cooking and gardening illustrated her nurturing nature, infusing her home with the love she so freely gave.
She is survived by her daughter, Carolyn Simon Collette of Groves; son, Norris Simon, Jr. (Peggy) of Port Acres; daughter-in-law, Shirley Morgan Simon of Vinton, Louisiana; and a loving family of grandchildren: Angela Mannino (Steve), Joey Collette (Vanessa), Sean Collette, Celeste Simon Cormier, Deke Simon (Jada), Angela Irene Findley (Larry), Kerri Kelly, and Julie Coleman. In addition to her grandchildren, she leaves behind twenty-one great-grandchildren and sixteen great-great-grandchildren, bringing her legacy forward.
Florence will be dearly missed by her brother, Winzy Vassar, Jr. of Sulfur, Louisiana; brother, Robert Vassar; and sister, Jane Vassar. She reunites with her beloved husband, Norris Simon, Sr.; parents, Winzy Vassar, Sr. and Duna Hebert Vassar; son, Mark Simon; son-in-law, Joseph Collette; grandchildren, Lonnie Cormier III and Frank Joseph Mannino; as well as her brothers, Samuel Vassar and Richard Vassar, and sister, Janice Hartzog.
In celebration of Florence's remarkable life, visitation will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a Rosary at 11:00 AM, and a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 AM at St. Therese, The Little Flower Catholic Church, located at 6412 Garnet Ave, Port Arthur, Texas. Rite of Committal will take place at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Groves.
Florence Vassar Simon leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and service that will resonate in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing her.