Obituary for Susan Ferne (Bryan) Simmons

Susan Ferne Simmons, 78, of Portland, Michigan, passed on January 12th, 2021, in Lansing, MI. She was born May 2nd, 1942, the first daughter to Howard Bryan and Bessie Fern (Hawley) Bryan in Charlotte, MI. She married Thomas E. Simmons August 15th, 1964 in Charlotte, MI. She is survived by her husband, her daughter Marlee A. (Simmons) Perez of San Antonio, TX, son Bryan D. and (Susan Okasinski) Simmons of North Aurora, IL, five grandchildren, Madeline Simmons, Owen Simmons, Anna Perez, Alyssa Perez, and Amelia Simmons, her sister, Sylvia (Bryan) Colles of Charlotte, MI, and nephews Timothy and Matthew Colles. She is preceded in death by her mother and father.

Susan attended Charlotte High School, Central Michigan University and Michigan State University. She taught High School Home Economics and English, Nursery School, Head Start, Kindergarten and Developmental Kindergarten to three generations of her community. She was an avid gardener, cook, quilter and crafter. Very active in the community, a beloved wife, mother, teacher, friend, and neighbor, she will be missed by many.

A family graveside ceremony will be held on January 16th, 2021 at the Portland Cemetery.

A large memorial celebration of Sue’s life will be held in the late summer or early fall of 2021, circumstances permitting.

Anyone wishing to make a donation in her name, please consider:

· First Congregational Church of Portland, https://fccportland.weebly.com

· Relief After Violent Encounter -Ionia/Montcalm, www.raveim.org, serving victims of domestic and sexual abuse.