Marie Simms

The Life of Marie Simms

Alberta Marie Simms was born on March 1, 1947, in Philadelphia to the late Alberta German and Calvin Gorrell. She was the sister to the late John, Harold, the late Jerome, and half-sister Luetisha (Tish). She was a supportive sister, taking on cooking and cleaning throughout her early childhood and teen years while our grandmother, a nurse, worked.

Affectionately known as "Rebe", she was very active in school, serving on various committees, attending basketball games and a member of the pep team. Most importantly, she developed lifelong friendships during her high-school years (and throughout her life). In 1965 she graduated from West Philly High School and attended Community College of Philadelphia thereafter.

Mom met our father, Frederick Simms, at a Billy Paul concert. Though the union didn't last, she persevered, raising two children as a single mother. She was a strong, independent woman and ensured that as children, we never wanted for anything. She held positions at the U.S. Post Office, Laborers Local 332, AT&T/Lucent Technologies (over 20 years), and the School District of Philadelphia.

Mom was an excellent seamstress (making most of our clothing growing up and teaching her brothers how to sew). She undoubtedly was a true fashionista until the end (wearing Michael Kors to the hospital). She also was a great cook - "putting her foot in it" with her sweet potato pies.

She stayed close with the West Philly clique and helped form the West Philadelphia High School Class of January '65 Scholarship Committee. As secretary, she worked on memorable fundraising events that raised money for student scholarships.

Her first bout with cancer occurred in the late 80's and around that time, she "found her people" at Salem Baptist Church. As a dedicated member, she often volunteered her time, helping with events, welcoming new members and for a period of time, working for the church as an administrator. Through the church, she also got involved with Praise is the Cure, an organization dedicated to breast cancer awareness. Throughout her illness her resolute faith kept her will strong. Along with giving back, Mom had a passion for living life! She danced, roller-skated, enjoyed theater and social events. Her favorite past-time though was spending time with her friends. She frequently traveled with girlfriends - whether it be trips to the Caribbean, a cruise, shopping, or dining at restaurants. Taping into her creative side, in her retirement years she started making custom greeting cards – Marie’s Unique Designs, that were just as fashionable as she was.

On the morning of Sunday, March 10, 2024, God called Mom home. She transitioned from this world, succumbing to cancer that spread to her lungs. She leaves to cherish her memory: her two children, Stephanie and Stephen; one brother, Harold Gorrell; one sister, Tish Dayson; grand-children, JaVonna Simms and Zollie McClary; three great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins, distant family members and a loving community of dear friends.

Mom had a life well lived. She touched many lives with her charming personality and an ability to cultivate lasting friendships with every encounter and experience she had and made the lives she touched a bit brighter.

Submitted With Love,

The Family

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