Born in Neshoba County, Union, MS to the late Tennie and Viola Slaughter Welch on June 7, 1926, Mrs. Iva Dean Welch Simmons was the 11th child of 13. Accepting Christ at the young age of 11, Mrs. Simmons united with Little Mountain Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. E.C. Cager.

Mrs. Simmons graduated high school from Attala County Training School in 1945 and went on to receive her Bachelor of Science degree from Rust College in 1954. After leaving Rust College, she furthered her studies at both Jackson State University and Mississippi State University. Mrs. Simmons served as an educator in the Holmes, Choctaw, and Attala county school districts for 37 years at the elementary level.

In 1953, she was united in holy matrimony to Mr. Fred Simmons. To this union, one child was born. After getting married, Mrs. Simmons joined her husband and became a member of Mt. Cana Missionary Baptist Church, pastored by the late rev. W.M. Brown. Shortly after moving to Jackson, MS, she united in membership with Cherry Grove Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Marek Walker. Mrs. Simmons served the Lord diligently across the years in various capacities. Her ministry areas include serving as an Usher, Sunday School teacher, Mission board member, Deaconess, choir member, and President of the Mt. Hope District Women's Convention. Additionally, she was involved in many civic organizations, including the Order of the Eastern Star and the National Council of Negro Women.

As as graceful woman of class and perseverance who valued education, Mrs. Simmons touched the lives of many individuals during her lifetime. She enjoyed spending time with her family, reading, cooking, and ironing. Her favorite song was "The Old Rugged Cross." Her favorite scripture was John 14:2.

Mrs. Simmons leaves to cherish her memory: one daughter Cheryl (Gregory, Sr.) Hayes of Jackson, MS; one grand-daughter Felecia (Reginald) Bass of Jackson, MS; one grandson Gregory Hayes, Jr. of Houston, TX; one great grand-daughter, Little Miss Reagan Bass of Jackson, MS, and a host of nieces and nephews from the Welch and Simmons families.

PLACE OF GRAVESIDE: Antioch Cemetery, Kosciusko, MS

DATE OF GRAVESIDE: Monday 12/07/2020 at 12:00 noon

INTERMENT: Antioch Cemetery, Kosciusko, MS