(1930 – 2022)
Jean Simmons of Odenville, Alabama, served in the St. Clair County Extension office for 40 years. Simmons was the lead secretary and in that role was a vital part of program discussions, implementation, and outreach. She stayed current on office policy and procedures and volunteered in the office for several years after her retirement in 1995.
Simmons was responsible for the Extension Newsletter, helping prepare registration and program materials, sending meeting announcements, and writing letters of appreciation. She was completely devoted to her position and the success of the office. She was very proud to be an Auburn University employee and had tremendous respect for the role of the county Extension office in St. Clair County.
Simmons could always be counted on to bring food for covered dish meals with the staff. She cared deeply about each of her co-workers and their families.
“Jean looked out for all the staff and their family,” remembers one co-worker. “If we were out of the office, she made our children and family feel at home until we returned. She was on time and stayed late, and she was accurate in her work. She knew the people who came to the office and made them feel welcomed.”
Simmons faithfully served Odenville First Baptist Church and was its oldest member when she passed at the age of 91. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Clara Simmons and brother Clayton Simmons. She is survived by her nieces Elaine Cash (Bud) and Jenice Glass (Jay); great nieces Amy Stanford (Kent), Jennifer Grooms, Kelly Anderson; great nephews Scott Salser (Lisa), Mike Cash (Mandy); 11 great-great nieces and nephews and 2 great-great-great nieces.
In recognition of her years of service, the name Jean Simmons is inscribed on the dedicatory plaque of the Extension Memorial Chapel.
Chapel Plaque Inscription Number 662
