Jean Frances Harden Simmons
Jean Frances Harden Simmons, 86, of Rockingham, passed away on Sunday, July 6, 2025 at Bellaire at Stone Point.
She was born on December 3, 1938 and was a daughter of the late Edward and Ruth (Howe) Harden.
Jean had worked as a bookkeeper for Ashby Animal Clinic. She was a member of Harrisonburg First Presbyterian Church with big faith. Jean attended Bridgewater College and earned her degree in Fine Arts from James Madison University, which helped fulfill her calling as a water color artist. Prior to earning her degree, she worked three jobs to put her husband through Veterinary School. Jean was an avid sports fan, especially JMU sports. She was instrumental in giving her children and grandchildren a love for art and music. She had "adopted" numerous kids over the years and enjoyed volunteering in her community. But her greatest joy came from being a full time Nana.
Jean was united in marriage to the love of her life, James Garland Simmons, DVM, MS, on May 14, 1960.
Surviving in addition to her husband are her daughters, Tracey Muterspaugh & husband William "Billy", and Tricia Eagle & husband Rick; two sisters, Joyce Ringler, and Ginger Harden, and a cousin Jane Howe; six grandchildren, Andy Muterspaugh, Ashley Muterspaugh, Sara Luna & husband Nahum, Ryan Hildebrand, Ryan Eagle, and Kyle Eagle & wife Anna; and a great granddaughter, Selene Luna and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a daughter, Kelly Simmons, and her best friend, Maureen Judy.
A service celebrating Jean's life will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 2:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Scott Thayer officiating. The family will receive friend from 1:00 to 2:00 PM in the church fellowship hall prior to the service. Burial will be private.
Friends may pay their respects on Friday, July 11, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Johnson Funeral & Cremation Service in Bridgewater.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bridgewater College or the Ashby Animal Clinic Cares Fund.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at johnsonfs.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater.
