Jewell Franklin Simmons, age 82, of Ivanhoe passed gently from her earthly life to eternal rest on Sunday, May 11, 2014 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.

She was born May 18, 1931 in Lynchburg, VA, the daughter of the late Cyrus James and Jeanette Apperson Franklin. Also remembered is her daughter, Audrey Simmons Porter, who preceded Jewell in death.

Jewell is survived by her devoted husband, Thomas "Tommy" Dewey Simmons, Jr.; sons, Thomas "Skeet" Dewey Simmons III (Pat) of Ivanhoe and Gary Wayne Simmons (Diana) of Hickory; daughters, Teresa S. Collins (Ed) of Holly Ridge and Ginny Lynn Simmons of Wilmington; son-in-law, George Porter of Castle Hayne; grandchildren, Cecilia Langston (Keith), Brandon Simmons, Kristie Porter, James Porter and Nicole Hubler (Andy) and great grandchildren, Haleigh, Hayden, Emily and Landon; sister, Linda Franklin of Lynchburg, VA; and many extended family and friends who dearly loved Jewell.

Jewell served her country honorably in the US Air Force. She was a member of Moores Creek Baptist Church.

Jewell loved with all of her heart and her radiant smile and joyful laughter brightened the life of family and her many friends. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, mother-in-law and the joy of her life was her grandchildren and great grandchildren. In years past, Jewell and Tommy enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and Canada. Cookouts, family gathering and watching all sports on TV were among the many things Jewell enjoyed. Most recently, Jewell's happiest times were spent with "The Girls" (Jo Ann Meckley, Edna DeBose and Jean Eakins) as they lunched and shopped together. Also, eating pizza, playing cards and games with dear friends, Dexter and Evelyn Swicegood were such fun for Jewell. All of their friendships were treasured and appreciated.

Graveside funeral service will be 12 noon on Wednesday, at Moores Creek Baptist Church Cemetery with The Rev. Philip Eakins and The Rev. Gardner Eakins officiating. The family will receive friends at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday in the church fellowship hall until hour of the service.

Condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

Graveside funeral service will be 12 noon on Wednesday, at Moores Creek Baptist Church Cemetery with The Rev. Philip Eakins and The Rev. Gardner Eakins officiating. The family will receive friends at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday in the church fellowship hall until hour of the service.