Jo Ruth Simmons

Jo Ruth Simmons, 82, of Bells, Texas, passed away in her home surrounded by family on September 20, 2025. Ruth was born on June 6, 1943, in Gadsden, Alabama. She was the daughter of Albert Reynolds and Martha Nellie Jane Conner. She grew up surrounded by a large and close-knit family that shaped her deep sense of love and devotion to those around her. Ruth shared a long and loving marriage with her late husband, Bennie Joseph Simmons Sr. Together they built a life rooted in family. She was a devoted mother to her children: Donna Wilson and Mike Oliver of Bells, Joseph Simmons Jr. of Bells, Vicki Pettit and husband John Pettit of Bells, Texas, Bobbie Taraba and husband Alan Taraba of Whitewright, and Tricia Whitmire and husband Brad Whitmire of Bells. Her legacy continues through her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom brought so much joy to her life. She is also remembered by her siblings: brother Bobbie Reynolds and wife Barbara Reynolds of Alabama and sister Ann Reynolds of Alabama. She was preceded in death by her brothers Harold, James, and Ronnie Reynolds; sister Mamie Gamble; her grandchild Daniel Simmons; and her beloved parents. Ruth found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had a passion for canning fresh produce, tending to a garden, planting beautiful flowers, quilting, and cooking home-cooked meals for family gatherings. Pallbearers will be Brad Whitmire, Jason Owen, Mike Oliver, Wyatt Selman, Dylan Simmons, and Trevor Whitmire. Those who knew her remembered her as a loving, caring, great wife, mom, grandma, great-grandma, and aunt whose warmth touched generations. May her memory bring comfort and peace to all who knew and loved her. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Mullican Little Funeral Home 754 State Hwy 56 E. Bells, Texas 75414. Burial will follow at Rosehill Cemetery in Bells.