Fannie Mae Simmons, daughter of the late John Henry Gaines and Katie Green Gaines, was born November 11, 1941, in Griffin, Georgia.

As she sprouted and grew, she attended the public schools of Tift County.  Throughout school, Fannie was a very perceptive young lady with a zeal for learning and a yearning desire to be of service and help others.

After migrating to Albany, Georgia, she united with the Litman Cathedral House of God Saints In Christ under the pastorate of Bishop J. L. Litman. She continued serving the Lord faithfully under the leadership and guidance of Bishop-Elect Michael White.  Initially, Fannie could be found seated with the choir singing praises and glorifying God.  Later, she fervently availed herself in service as an Usher for over 54 years.  In all things, she spread the gospel of Christ through her singing, standing at her post greeting the congregation, and through her words of witness.

Fannie was united in holy matrimony to Riley Simmons who preceded her in death.  She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and meticulous homemaker who looked well to the ways of her household and ate not the bread of idleness.  She had a quiet strength, held a tremendous amount of love in her heart for family, and covered them all in deep affection.

Spending time with family and friends was a source of joy for Fannie and she looked forward to events that brought them together in love and harmony.  Never one to meet a stranger, she had the innate ability to strike up a conversation with anyone.  Those who met her once could easily gain an ally for life—for in her, they quickly found a kind and generous friend.

On Thursday, May 26, 2022 Fannie Mae Simmons was welcomed into the embrace of her Heavenly Father at the Willson Hospice House.

Her love and memory will be forever cherished by her daughter, Beatrice (Larry) Tinson of Albany, GA; granddaughters, Vontressia Bryant and LaKesha (W. Cedrick) Boone both of Albany, GA; a very special cousin, Wynell Slade of Tifton, GA; and a host of other cousins, extended family, and friends.