Lou Anne Simmons, a cherished mother, grandmother, and community leader, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 in Nederland, Texas. Born on May 9, 1936, in Kansas City, Kansas, she lived a life rich in love, family, and service.
Lou Anne dedicated many years of her professional life to Sun Oil, where she excelled as a Comptroller until her retirement. Her career was marked by diligence and commitment, characteristics she carried into her personal life. A proud member of the First United Methodist Church of Nederland, she exemplified the spirit of giving and community involvement throughout her life.
Her contributions to the community did not go unnoticed; she was instrumental in dedicating and establishing the Auxiliary at the Medical Center of Southeast Texas, further solidifying her legacy of service. As a member of the Order of the Eastern Star for 65 years, she was member of the Nederland Chapter and served as President of the Pink Ladies Auxiliary at Mid-Jefferson Hospital.
A devoted family woman, Lou Anne was happily married for 68 years to her husband, Clifford Simmons, with whom she shared a life filled with love and joy. She is survived by her sons, Carlton Simmons and his wife Marla of Nederland; Willie Simmons and his wife Jennifer of Lumberton; and daughter Edie Cessna and her husband Kevin of Nederland. Her legacy also lives on through her grandchildren: Amy Blount and her husband Brandon, Joy Bouget and her husband James, Melanie Bell and her husband Lucas, Chad Simmons, Alettra Hudson, Morgan Laird and her husband Brandon, Mason Simmons and his wife Courtney, Mitchell Simmons and his wife Makenzie, Holly Mitchell and her husband Clint, and Hunter Cessna and his fiancé Dana. She was also the proud grandmother of great-grandchildren: Mexia, Garrett, Marshall, Brett, Camdyn, Kingston, Marlie, Griffin, Bradlie, Adaline, Jude, Lincoln, Cason, Ava, Jackson, Lucy, Jett, Jax, and Drake, who brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by her sister, Patti Ann Anderson of The Woodlands.
Lou Anne had a passion for bringing people together and cherished the time she spent playing board games and card games with her family, always prioritizing family above all else. She enjoyed crocheting afghans for each of her children and grandchildren. She was also known for her culinary talents, delighting loved ones with her cooking. In addition, Lou Anne enjoyed fishing and was an avid bowler, having been a member of numerous leagues in Port Arthur, and enjoyed working on puzzles during her leisure time. Her love for art was evident in her collection of oil paintings and Beanie Babies, showcasing her vibrant personality.
Lou Anne's family and friends will remember her not only for her accomplishments but for the love and warmth she shared with everyone around her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Perry and Marie Lawrence, and her great-grandchild, Luke Simmons.
A visitation will be held to honor her memory on April 25, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home, 1605 Avenue H, Nederland, TX 77627. Lou Anne Simmons will remain in the hearts of all who knew her, forever celebrated for the love she cultivated and the lives she touched.
The family would like to give a special thank you to Tori and Destiny from Gentiva Hospice for the special love and care they showed their mother during her time of need. They also wish to recognize Elizabeth and Karen from Synergy Home Care for making a difference in the life of Lou Anne.