Leah Anne Simmons

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
--Romans 5:13

Obituary

Leah Anne Simmons, a beloved resident of Oneonta, Alabama and for the last 3 years of Belmont Village in Encino, CA, passed away peacefully on Mother's Day, May 11, 2025, at the age of 83.



Leah Anne Waltermire was born in Eunice, Louisiana to Jacob B. and Audrey Waltermire. Jacob (Jake) worked in the oil industry and moved the family to Bay City, TX when Leah was a girl. In her middle school years, the family returned home to Lafayette, Louisiana where Leah finished her education.



In May of 1981, Leah became the beloved wife of David John Simmons, with whom she shared a beautiful journey of love and companionship lasting over four decades. Together, they traveled the world and built a strong foundation of faith and family.



Throughout her years, Leah was known for her generous spirit and outgoing personality. Wherever she lived, Louisiana, Frisco, TX, Alabama or finally California, her home was always open to others, with a smile and a spirit of hospitality. She found joy in baking cookies, pies and cakes and sharing them with friends in need. Leah extended her warmth and kindness to everyone she met.



As a follower of Christ, Leah's faith was evident in her life. She and David were active members of Cornerstone Fellowship in Oneonta, AL for more than a decade. Her church community was a joy in her life. She grew in her faith and both she and David formed lifelong friendships.



Leah had a passion for life that extended beyond her immediate circle. In Louisiana, she was an avid golfer, often found on the greens with David, embracing the camaraderie and challenge of the sport. In Lake Charles, LA, Leah was a common sight on the golf course, winning several club championships and city-wide tournaments.



True to her adventurous spirit, Leah traveled extensively with David and saw many parts of the world: Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Ireland, England, Brazil and Columbia, to name just a few. Each journey enriched her life and broadened her perspective on the world, always bringing her back home with stories that inspired others to see the world through her eyes.



Leah's legacy lives on through her loving family and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and generosity. She is preceded in death by her parents, Audrey and Jake Waltermire and her eldest son, Bruce (Annette) Smotherman. She is survived by her husband of 44 years, David Simmons, her brother Jacob (Kathy) Waltermire, by children John (Danielle) Simmons, Helen (Ferghal) Purcell, Vanessa (Joe) Hollis, Nicole (Roy) Newman, and Daughter-in-law, Annette Smotherman. Leah leaves behind a multitude of loving grandchildren as well as a host of great grandchildren.


While her absence leaves a profound void, her spirit will live on in the lives of the generations she leaves behind.

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