Willie Mae Heppard Simmons was born June 19, 1932 to the late Solomon David and Arsula Heppard.

She attended school in Mitchell County, Georgia, where she grew up and spent most of her young adult life. At an early age, she accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior and joined New Salem Missionary Baptist Church.

Willie Mae united in marriage to the late Paris Simmons Sr. and from this union nine children were born.

She was a pillar of strength and a loving confidant to many. Affectionately known as Granny, Ms. Willie Mae was known for her selfless acts of kindness, wisdom and quick wit. She enjoyed being outdoors working her garden, tending to her plants and relishing in the laughs of her grandchildren.

Ms. Willie Mae transitioned to eternal life Friday, September 7, 2018, at the Willson Hospice House in Albany, GA. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by four children: Paris Simmons Jr., John Simmons, David Simmons and Annie Louise Simmons Johnson; and a loving and devoted companion of over 40 years, Vaulden Gadson. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Bobby Heppard and Frederick Moore.

Her loving memory will be cherished by her three daughters, JoAnne Lewis (Charles) of Albany GA, Pamela Brown (Elmo) of Atlanta GA, and Barbara Simmons of Atlanta GA; two sons, Dallas Simmons of Pensacola FL and Bob Simmons (Martha) of Savannah GA; a sister, Unita Heppard of Baconton GA; two brothers, Lewis Moore (Terie) and Curtis Heppard both of Baconton GA; twenty nine grandchildren, three of which she raised, Dallas Simmons Jr, Darion Simmons and DeAndrea Simmons; and a host of great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.