Marianne K. Simmons
March 15, 1932 - August 21, 2023
In Loving Memory of Marianne Simmons
Born - March 15, 1932
Died - August 21, 2023
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Marianne Simmons, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and faithful follower of Jesus. She passed away on Monday, August 21, 2023 surrounded by the love and warmth of her family.
Marianne was born on March 15, 1932, in Hot Springs. SD to Hazel and Ellery Kelley and had a younger brother, Michael. She graduated from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. and stayed on to teach creative drama in Chicago. She moved to Omaha to help her parents run their stores, Virgie's Town and Country. Soon after her move to Nebraska, she met Ray Simmons, a Fremont attorney, and Nebraska State Senator. They were married in 1957 and went on to raise their two children, Michael and Elizabeth in Fremont. Marianne lost the love of her life, Ray in 2002. They were devoted to historic preservation throughout the State of Nebraska. Marianne was a dedicated volunteer and served on countless boards throughout the state.
Marianne loved gardening, entertaining and travel. While she created beauty around her, she will be remembered most for her beautiful heart and love for family and friends. She was genuinely interested in learning about ''their story.'' Always with an open heart and open arms, she was kind to all. Their home was a gathering spot, and many of her children's friends claim Marianne as their second mother. Her positive spirit, determination, and strength in the face of adversity, served as an inspiration to all who knew her.
Marianne is preceded in death by parents Ellery and Hazel Kelley, brother Michael, and husband Ray. Survived by children Michael Simmons, Elizabeth ''Betsy'' (Doug) Schuring; grandchildren; Andrew (Kate) Simmons, Claire (Fan) Bi, Gregory Schuring (Sheridan), Mary Elizabeth ''Libby'' (Darin) Ruf and great grandchildren; Charlie, Henry, Phineas, Collins, Olive, Ingrid, and Clement. Her legacy lives on through the values she instilled in family and the countless lives she touched.
Ludvigsen Mortuary in Fremont will be welcoming friends to sign a guestbook on Friday, August 25, 2023 from 9am until 1pm. Family will be present from noon to 1pm. A private family graveside service will be held at Ridge Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations in Marianne's memory be made to Fremont's May Museum, the Keene Memorial Library project, Ridge Cemetery Association, or a charity of your choice.
Ludvigsen Mortuary in Fremont is in charge of arrangements.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Obituary Provided By:
1249 E. 23rd St.
Fremont, NE 68025
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