Shelby Jean Newsome-Simmons 77 of Roanoke Rapids, NC passed away peacefully at her residence on Thursday August 1, 2024.  

Jean was born on August 7, 1946, in Halifax County. 

She is preceded by her parents Robert Andrew and Edna Overton Newsome, her husband Lawrence Simmons, her son Jeffrey Simmons, her brother Robert A. Newsome Jr., and her sister Chris Lynch.

Jean is survived by her son Larry “Root” Simmons (Susan), her daughter Crystal Harp (David), grandchildren; Shelby Newsome, Ridge Simmons (Ashlynn), Lauren Shapiro (Joe), Andrew Hardin, Kandance Tredway (Josh), Tara Simmons, Bryce Simmons and Skye Simmons, her great grandchildren; Weller Shapiro, Solomon Shapiro, Lawson Simmons, Elizabeth Hardin and Sera Tredway, and her special friend Ronald Blanton.

She was a beloved babysitter; she loved bowling and loved her family.

The family will have a private memorial service later.

Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service is handling the arrangements for the Simmons family. Family and friends may sign the online register by visiting www.hockadayfs.com