She was born May 12, 1933, in Bernie, Mo., to George L. and Odessa (Chandler) Forrest. In 1973, she married James Simmons. He preceded her in death.

She is survived by two sons, Larry (Joi) Forrest of Elkhart and Christopher "Daryl" (Tammy) Simmons of South Bend; one stepson, Daniel Chavis of San Diego, Calif.; three grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren; one brother, George (Nan) Forrest II of Elkhart; and four sisters, Aretha (Roosevelt) Davis, Earlean Gary, Josephine "Josie" Pulliam and Ruth (George) Chavis, all of Elkhart.

She was preceded in death by two husbands, Ollie Chavis and James Simmons; and two sisters, Mattie and Mercedes Forrest.

Friends may call one hour prior to Monday's 1 p.m. funeral service at Community Missionary Baptist Church, Elkhart. The Rev. Lefate Owens will officiate with burial to follow in Little Pine Cemetery, Goshen. Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, is in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Simmons was a maid and cook for the Holiday Inn, Elkhart, for more than 10 years. She was a member and head of the usher board for the Community Missionary Baptist Church for more than 30 years, spending much of her time in service to her church by helping with dinners, functions and services. She assisted the Rev. Owens and his wife with matters of the church and was an accomplished seamstress and cook, who lavished her family with food, care and love.

Memorials may be given to the Wyzella Simmons Memorial Fund in care of Billings Funeral Home. Visit www.billingsfuneralhome.com to send online condolences.