Martha "Marti" Elizabeth Simmons

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Martha "Marti" Elizabeth Simmons, a beloved matriarch, cherished friend, and vibrant spirit who touched the lives of many. Marti passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family, on June 13, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on January 21, 1943, in the warm embrace of Lake Wales, Florida, Marti was the cherished daughter of the late William H. Talbot and Mildred "Lalla" Talbot. She carried the values of love, resilience, and compassion instilled by her parents throughout her life, which she lived with grace and dignity. Marti's journey through life was marked by profound love and partnership. She was first united in marriage to Richard E. Bennett on July 24, 1967, a union that brought joy and companionship until his untimely passing on January 15, 1984. Marti found love again with Arthur W. Simmons, marrying him on August 9, 1984, and together they built a life filled with laughter and shared experiences until his passing on August 6, 2017. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth and kindness, where family and friends always felt welcome and cherished. A devoted mother, Marti leaves behind a legacy of love with her daughter, Renée Walters, and husband Ed Walters of Simpsonville, SC, and her son, Sean Bennett, and wife Donna Bennett of Justin, TX. Her love extended beyond her immediate family, embracing her stepson Michael Simmons and wife Laura Simmons of Little Elm, TX. Marti's nurturing spirit and radiant smile will be forever remembered by her nine grandchildren: Tonya Kozak, Taylor Walters, Kristyn Bennett, Jordan Simmons, Madison Simmons, Jordan Blanton, Jaden Maynor, Octavia Maynor, Tsarian Drummomd, and her five great-grandchildren: Ellie, Bristol, Harlow, Athena, and Eleanor. Marti was predeceased by her parents, William and Mildred Talbot, her first husband Richard, her second husband Arthur, her cherished stepdaughter Michelle Maynor, her brother Lee Curtis Roger, her sister-in-law Dana Rogers, and her niece Lisa Brown. Though she has left this earthly realm, her spirit remains alive in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her life will be celebrated on June 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Baldwin Fairchild at Chapel Hill, located at 2420 Harrell Rd, Orlando, FL 32817. It is a time for family and friends to gather in remembrance, to share stories, and to honor a life that was beautifully lived. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Marti's memory to a charity of your choice, reflecting her generous heart and dedication to making the world a better place. Martha "Marti" Elizabeth Simmons will be remembered as a beacon of love, strength, and kindness. Her legacy is one of unwavering devotion to family and an enduring impact on everyone she met. She will be greatly missed but never forgotten, as her spirit continues to inspire and guide those she leaves behind.