of St. Charles, AR

May 21, 1936 - September 24, 2023

Rhoda Jeanette Kelly Simmons, 87, of St. Charles, AR passed away peacefully on September 24, 2023. She was born on May 21, 1936 in Indian Bay, AR to her loving parents, Eula Pettie Kelly and Angus Lee Kelly.

Jeanette was a woman of unwavering faith and a St. Charles Baptist Church member. Her life was a testament to her faith and love of our Lord Jesus Christ. On July 19, 1952, she married the love of her life, Edward "Preacher" Simmons and together they had four children.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents and siblings, Lloyd Kelly, James Kelly, Mary Ann Morris and Cora Lee George; as well as her beloved eldest daughter, Debbie Simmons Barrett. While we mourn their loss, we also celebrate the love and memories they leave behind.

Jeanette's legacy of love and family continues through her surviving children: Phyllis Barrett, Edward (Amy) Simmons and Michelle (Jimmy) Jenkins.

Her love extended to her seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. As well as her loving caregiver, Kate Allison.

Jeanette's grandchildren include Natalie (Mike) Barrett, Daniel (Megan) Barrett, Andrea Barrett, Kelli Barrett, Weslie (Scott) Gray, Emily (Tony) Gilbertson and Savannah (Luke) Trussel.

Her great-grandchildren include Hannah Barrett, William Barrett, Alex Gray and Thea Gilbertson.

Jeanette was a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) who graduated from RiceBelt Vocational School of Nursing in 1990. Her caring nature shone through during her 22-year tenure at the DeWitt Hospital, where she provided exceptional care to her patients until her retirement. She was well-known and respected in the community for her kindness and compassion as a nurse and she was beloved by everyone at the hospital where she worked.

Outside of her nursing career, Jeanette had many talents and passions. She was known for her love of gardening, which she tended to year after year; you could always count on her for fresh canned salsa or preserves. She was an expert at sewing, quilting and crocheting, she could often be found creating intricate and beautiful pieces, which she often gifted to friends and family.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at a viewing to be held at the Roller-Citizens Funeral Home in West Helena, AR on Friday, September 29th from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

A graveside service to celebrate Jeanette's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 30th at the Cypert Cemetery in Marvell, AR. Flowers and plants are appreciated, as Jeanette loved them. Donations can be made in her honor to the St. Charles Baptist Church.

As we remember Jeanette, we hold onto the memories of her warmth, strength, deep faith and her love for her friends and family.

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