Olivia Carter Simmons

Olivia Carter Simmons, 96, Lake Mary, went home to the Lord May 9, 2021. She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family, care givers, and compassionate Advent Hospice care team members. Olivia was born April 15, 1925 in Chipley, Florida to Gladys Higginbotham and Carl Carter. She is survived by her sons Cleatous J. Simmons (Rhonda), Winter Park, and Clayton D. Simmons (Joanne), Lake Mary, 8 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, her sister Odeal Gainer, 93, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Cleatous Carl Carter, her sister Oveal Caswell, and her beloved husband, Joseph Daniel Simmons.

Olivia dropped out of High School at age 17 but enrolled in Rapid City South Dakota High School at the age of 25 to earn her high school diploma. From there she went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree at Florida State University, a master’s degree at University of South Alabama, and ultimately completed the course work for a PhD in education through Nova Southeastern University. A lifelong educator she believed education opened the door to unlimited opportunity for anyone willing to apply themself.

A fiercely independent woman, Olivia fought for success in every endeavor. She was an equally fierce wife and mother. “Quit” and “can’t” were not part of her vocabulary and she never took no for an answer. She inspired many young women to continue their education and move forward in life. At her 90th birthday celebration over 130 people attended and many gave glowing tributes to the motivational influence Olivia had in their lives.

Olivia touched many lives with her own life well lived. A celebration of life will be held for Olivia at a future date. The family requests that in lieu of flowers you may make a donation to an educational charity of your choice, or hospice, in her honor.