Obituary: Louise Clayton Simms, 95, formerly of Loretto
LOUISE SIMMS
Marie Louise Clayton Simms, 95, of Louisville, formerly of Loretto, died on Dec. 2, 2014, at Seneca Place. She was born March 12,1919, in Holy Cross to Allen Eugene and Katherine Coy Clayton. She married Cyril Simms and they lived in the small farming community of Manton until Cyril died at the early age of 50. With three of seven children still residing at home, she moved to Loretto where she became a social worker until she retired at the age of 70.
Never one to be afraid of work and finding “retirement” boring, she took a position as a people greeter at Walmart where she remained for 23 years. She built many friendships with fellow associates and customers from the old Walmart on Outer Loop as well as the Hillview store. They were her second family. At the age of 93 her doctor told her that failing health required her to retire.
In 2012, Louise was recognized as one of the nominees of the ‘Gold Standard Award for Optimal Aging’ presented by U of L Geriatrics. The award was to recognize elders age 85 and older who stayed active in their community.
She was a member of St. Rita’s Catholic Church and often volunteered to work at church picnics. She was a woman of great wisdom and lead by example. When asked the benefit of growing older, her humorous side said “there is less peer pressure”.
She leaves to celebrate her life and memory her seven children, Bob (Agnes), Jim (Sonnie), Marci Daniels (David), Howard (JoAnn), Joe(Rita), Dan (Janet), Dennis (Jeanne) and many of her 23 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.
With heartfelt appreciation, the family would like to thank the staff of Twinbrook Assisted Living and Seneca Place for their service and kindness that they showed Louise.
The Mass of Christian Burial is 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 5, 2014, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 6964 Cissellville Road in Manton with cremation to follow. The Rev. Matt Hardesty will officiate.
Visitation is 3-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, 2014, at Highlands Funeral Home, 3331 Taylorsville Road in Louisville and 9-10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 5, 2014, at Mattingly Funeral Home, 195 Holy Cross Road in Loretto.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her name to a charity of the giver’s choice.
The Mattingly Funeral Home in Loretto is in charge of local arrangements.
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