Lona M. Simmonds Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Lona Mae Martin Simmonds was born to the late Charlie and Allean Martin in Ethelsville, Alabama. To this union were born ten children; consisting of three boys and seven girls. Lona was the mother of two sons, Alphonso and LaGressa, who she loved dearly. She was affectionally called “Madea” by her sons and daughters-in-laws and “Big Mama” by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lona received her formative education in the Ethelsville Public School System. Upon completion of school, she and her sister, Jackie, moved to St. Louis where they became licensed cosmetologists. They became joint owners of the Saint Louis Beauty Salon on what was then Easton Avenue; the street has since been renamed Martin Luther King Ave. Never one to sit idly by, her second venture into the business world was as a Real Estate Agent. She fared well in real estate; she was very successful and well-respected in the field. Lona was a member of Scruggs Memorial CME Church for many years and in later years she became a loyal member of the Worldwide Church of God. She was an avid reader of the word and enjoyed Bible Study. Lona was always busy, she was never one to let dust settle under her feet nor in her house! She had a flare for decorating and she loved to beautify her house inside and out. Lona was a conversationalist and she had an opinion about most topics. She was independent, self-sufficient and, indeed, outspoken and direct. Lona was an excellent cook and enjoyed cooking for others. No one could quite make food taste just like hers. She would give the ingredients but not quite all of them! No one could mimic her cooking and it was always delicious! Lona loved her family and enjoyed family gatherings, good times, good food, good shopping, a beautiful yard, laughter, and conversing about the Bible. Lona leaves to cherish her memory two sons, Alphonso Richardson (Pat), and LaGressa Cross (Susan); grandchildren, Marcus Cross, Tyron Richardson, Deedre Rice (Anthony), Jarreau Cross and Jessica Cross; four great-grandchildren; Ryan Rice, Reagan Rice, Teryn Richardson, Tyler Richardson; sister, Johnnie Gragg; devoted family friend, Sherrill Jackson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. ******************************************************************************************** We will be adhering to strict CDC Guidelines, facial coverings and social distancing.

Lona M. Simmonds

June 10, 1924 - August 9, 2021