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
Condolences(8)
Jayne Lindberg
San Diego, CA Saturday, June 15, 2024 Betsy and Mike, I am so sorry to hear of Marianne’s passing. She was a lovely and gracious lady. She came to my Mom, Gee Cee’s service and was so kind. That was the last time I saw her and how I will remember her. Unfortunately, I don’t get back to Fremont much and am totally out of the loop, thus the late condolences. Wishing you well and know you have wonderful memories of your Mom!Lisbeth Usher McNabb
San francisco, CA Friday, August 25, 2023 Dear Betsy, and family,Your big love of your Mom leads to big loss. I wish you all no more sorrow.
Betsy took me home on a Fremont visit, with Michelle, and I was warmly welcomed by your mom and dad. I met brother Mike too. They later co-hosted with the Waring’s a bridal shower. Love and fun bubbled as it does from Betsy and the family she has built with Doug.
To her impactful life. To the celebration of her legacy and a lessening of the grief that unfolds next to all.
Lisbeth and family
brenda l rohde
fremont, NE Thursday, August 24, 2023 I took care of Ray and your Grandfather at merrick manor , they were the best Marianne was always the nicest person kind words always she loved her children and Grandkids always so proud ! Bless you all ! PrayersBrenda
brenda l rohde
fremont, NE Thursday, August 24, 2023 I took care of Ray and your Grandfather at merrick manor , they were the best Marianne was always the nicest person kind words always she loved her children and Grandkids always so proud ! Bless you all ! PrayersBrenda
Linda Jacobs
Omaha, NE Wednesday, August 23, 2023 Dear Betsy and family. It was with a heavy heart that I read of your Mom’s passing. Such a beautiful picture of a beautiful person. I have wonderful memories of many lunches spent with my Mom, Betty Moser, and all the Fremont ladies and your Mom. She had such terrific stories to tell and always made us smile and laugh. It is never easy to lose a Mother. May her memory be a blessing. Fondly, Linda JacobsGregg and Cheryl Kupfer
Omaha, NE Tuesday, August 22, 2023 Mike: Will be out of state Friday. Wanted you to know just how friendly your mother made everyone feel when we went over to "Simmon's house" so many times.As you know, my mother shared a close friendship with Marianne. We'll all be a little less now that she is gone. Much love and respect-Kup
Mary hendrickson
Fremont, NE Tuesday, August 22, 2023 Dear Family, May God bless you all on your journey of grief. Marianne was such an influence on my life, words cannot describe. It was an honor to know her. May she rest in peace.Sincerely, Mary Hendrickson
Greg Olson
Phoenix, AZ Tuesday, August 22, 2023 Ms Simmons to me, Marianne to all was simply the best. Warm, kind and always wanting to know how you were doing. Treated all the same. Fortunate to call Mike a close friend and get to know Ray, Marianne and Betsy.