Mary Turnbull Simmons
Mary Simmons Obituary
Mary Turnbull Vaughan Simmons, affectionately known as Mary T., passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025, in Glen Allen, Virginia. She was 77.
Born on July 24, 1947, in South Boston, Virginia, Mary was the daughter of the late Judge Robert Turnbull Vaughan and Virginia Etta Estes Vaughan. A proud native of Halifax County, she enjoyed a fun and spirited childhood that shaped her vibrant personality.
Mary was a dynamic woman of many talents. She graduated from Halifax County High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Radford University, where she also expressed her creative spirit as an actress—a passion she continued to pursue after college. Her career journey included roles as an actress, social worker, teacher, and sales professional. In each role, she touched lives with kindness, compassion, and a keen sense of humor.
An avid reader, walker, swimmer, and cook, Mary loved being outdoors—especially at the beach. Her adventurous spirit and love for life were felt by everyone who knew her.
Mary is survived by her devoted husband of 47 years, Gary Lee Simmons; her children: Gary Lee Simmons, Jr. (Shelley), Elizabeth Harrison Simmons Stadler (Carlton), and Caroline Bennett Simmons Stuart (Hunter); and her beloved grandchildren: Brennan Stadler, Reece Stadler, Payten Kahl, Alexa Stadler, Eli Simmons, Grafton Kahl, Tucker Simmons, Tadley Stuart, Jobee Stuart, and Stone Simmons. She also leaves behind her siblings: Robert (Wanda), John (Cathy), Hugh, Margaret (Mark), and David (Kyoko), as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
She was deeply proud of her roots and even prouder of her family, whom she loved and supported unconditionally. Mary T. was the absolute best mother, a loyal wife, and a true friend.
A memorial graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 16, 2025 at Sunset Hill Cemetery in Burkeville, Virginia. A reception will follow at the Crewe Country Club. Arrangements by Blackstone Chapel Joseph McMillian Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: Friends of the Crewe Library, in honor of Mary T’s lifelong love of reading. Mail to: Friends of Crewe Library, c/o Crewe Library, 414 Tyler Street, Crewe, VA 23930.
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