Joyce Simmons

Joyce Simmons, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home on October 13, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on May 21, 1939, in the close-knit community of Moore, Idaho, she was the cherished daughter of Ellis and Mildred Freckelton. Joyce's spirit and resilience were shaped by her upbringing and the enduring love of her family. Joyce was preceded in death by her loving parents, Ellis and Mildred, her sisters Jenny, Barbara, Elizabeth, Nancy, and her brother Marlow, as well as her beloved daughter Ann Kontos and grandsons Rhett Kontos and Brayden Blackmon. Despite these profound losses, Joyce's heart remained open, and her laughter was a source of light for those around her. She is survived by her brother Daniel Freckleton and her devoted children: Chuck, Jay, Karen, Jean, and Megan, who carry forward her legacy of love and kindness. Joyce was a proud grandmother to 15 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. On May 5, 1977, Joyce married the love of her life, Gerald Simmons, and together they built a life filled with laughter and joy. Their partnership was a testament to love, resilience, and companionship. Joyce had an exceptional passion and talent for flowers and gardening. She was known for growing her beautiful blooms from seeds or cuttings and generously shared her knowledge through classes, helping anyone interested in learning more. Her tomatoes and raspberries were a staple for local customers, cherished for their freshness and the love with which they were grown. Beyond her green thumb, Joyce was gifted in crafting, quilting, crocheting, and baking. Her creations were treasured by family and friends, each piece a testament to her skill and creativity. Her love for telling jokes was legendary; she would often laugh so hard that she couldn’t finish telling the punch line, bringing joy and laughter to those around her. A celebration of Joyce's life will be held on October 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the LDS Church 806 G street Rupert, Idaho. Family, friends, and all whose lives she touched are invited to gather to honor and remember her remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of one's choice, a fitting tribute to Joyce's generous spirit and her dedication to helping others. Joyce Simmons will be remembered for her unwavering love, her infectious laughter, and the beauty she brought to the world through her flowers and her heart. Her memory will forever bloom in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.