Patsy Simmons, affectionately known to many as “Pat,” was born on June 18, 1957, in Ripley, MS. Her story began in childhood, when she moved to Racine, Wisconsin where she found joy in simple things like spending time along Lake Michigan, watching the sunset, playing outside until dark, playing tetherball, and enjoying the company of family and friends. She attended Winslow Elementary School, Gifford Junior High School, and Case High School, growing from a young girl with a bright spirit into the woman so many would come to know and love. Even as a child, Pat had a personality all her own. She carried her sense of style with her from childhood into adulthood, always maintaining that touch of the fashionista that made her unmistakably Pat. As she grew older, life began to shape her in ways only she could truly understand. Pat worked at Doyle’s Pharmacy, Warren Packaging, and later St. Vincent de Paul, where her genuine concern for others became a meaningful part of the legacy she leaves behind. She had a way of making people feel comfortable and cared for, and she gave of herself even when she had her own battles to carry.But the greatest chapters of Pat’s life was her family. When she became a mother, she gave her children her heart. Motherhood was not always easy, but Pat was strong. She kept going through the difficult days because her children were her world. She loved them fiercely and wanted nothing more than to see them happy, safe, and successful. That love only grew as her family grew. Her grandchildren became a special joy in her life, and she was their biggest cheerleader encouraging them, supporting them, and wanting to see each of them become all they were meant to be. Her love continued into the next generation through her great grandchildren.

Pat also found love in the everyday things. She loved good food and to cook, especially making her famous mostaccioli, frying chicken, and preparing meals for those around her. For Pat, food was more than something to eat; it was her love language as a way to bring people together and show love. She was strong in ways that were not always visible. There were times when she was tired, times when life was heavy, and battles that many never knew she was fighting. Still, she held on. She continued to love, continued to care, and continued to show up for the people who mattered to her. That was Pat. She did not have to be perfect to be unforgettable. She simply had to be herself. Her love, her strength, her laughter, her cooking, her conversations, and the memories she created with the people around her became pieces of a life that will never be forgotten.

Many who knew her would simply say, “Pat was just Pat.” And perhaps that is the most beautiful way to remember her because there was only one Pat. Though her journey on earth has come to an end, the love she gave did not end with her. It remains in her children, siblings, grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family, friends, and in every heart she touched along the way. She may no longer walk beside us, but everything she poured into those she loved will continue to live. Her story continues in us. Her love remains with us. Patsy will forever be remembered for the way she could light up a room. Her beautiful, infectious smile had a way of making people feel welcomed, loved, and at ease. She carried a warmth and joy that was impossible to overlook, and her presence could brighten even the darkest of days. She will always be remembered by her radiant smile, her vibrant spirit, and the special way she made people feel simply by being herself.

Pat was preceded in death by her mother, Elizabeth Simmons; her father, Walter High; her sisters, Jackie Slack, Judy Phillips, and Elizabeth Dubenion; and her brothers, Johnny High, Larry High, and Joseph High. She was also preceded in death by her grandmother, Johnnie Simmons, and her grandfather, George Simmons. She leaves to cherish her memory her siblings, Barbara McCord, Joanne Love, Kenny Simmons, and Tommy High. Pat also leaves behind her children's father and forever friend, Carnell Simelton. From their union, she was blessed with three children: Cornelius Simmons of St. Paul, Minnesota; Lateefah Rabideau of Seattle, Washington and her husband, David Rabideau; and Alphieus "Nina" Swanks of Santa Monica, California. She also leaves behind her former son-in-law Cortez Swanks and former daughter-in-law, Heidi Day, both whom remained deeply loved and cherished by her. She leaves a beautiful legacy through her grandchildren, D’Olajuwon Swanks, Cornelius Simmons Jr., E’Lijah Rabideau, Tatyana Swanks, Justice Swanks, Chloe Rabideau, and Fancianna Simmons; and her great grandchildren, Aria Swanks, Kash Swanks, and many relatives and friends. Pat’s memory will also be lovingly cherished by her special aunt, Vallie Rogers; special cousins, Linda Cobb, Denise Cobb, Janet Weatherspoon, Martella Cox, Irene (Sis) McDonald; special friends, Brenda Allen (since childhood), Kenneth Williams, Charlene House, and Frank Cook.

A visitation will take place at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 10:00 a.m. A burial will immediately follow the service at West Lawn Memorial Park.