Doris C. (Carter) Simmons, 98, formerly of Westerly, died on September 6, 2021 in Greensboro, North Carolina. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 64 years, Downing B. Simmons Sr. who died in 2007.
Doris was born on February 9, 1923 in New Haven Connecticut. and was the daughter of Minnie Carter. She grew up In Brooklyn, New York and graduated from Girl’s High. She spent summers in Stonington with her mother and Aunt, Gertrude Owens at their family owned business of the popular Orchard House. It was during one of those summers when she met her husband, Downing. They were married and raised three children.
Doris was proud to have earned a certificate in Library Science from the University of Rhode Island and worked for many years at the Westerly Library. She was devoted to church and was for many years an active member of Pleasant Street Baptist Church and then of Central Baptist Church. She was active in many organizations in town and was a board member of the Senior Center.
Once Downing died, Doris relocated to North Carolina to be near her family. She was a strong woman of faith, but family was the most important part of her life. She loved and supported her family her entire life.
She is survived by her sons, Downing Simmons, Jr. (Carol) of Toronto, Canada, Gregory Simmons (Geraldine) of Greensboro, North Carolina and her daughter Lynne Stallworth (Wilson) of Piscataway, New Jersey. She leaves 4 grandchildren Sabrina, Owen, Meaghan and Ashley. She had devoted caregivers and the family would like to thank Teresa for the special care that she provided.
Although Doris was content and lived her last years in North Carolina, she always called Westerly her home. Her faith was strong until the end. She would often say “God has been good to me”
Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service on Wednesday, September 15, at 12:00 Noon in Riverbend Cemetery, 117 Beach Street, Westerly.
Donations in her memory may be made to the Westerly Senior Center. .
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