Virginia Fuller Simmons, 74, of Laurens, South Carolina, passed away peacefully into the arms of her Savior on Tuesday, April 23, 2019. She was born in Laurens on March 30, 1945, the daughter of the late Grady and Madia Riddle Fuller, formerly of Laurens. She was also the proud granddaughter of Fielding Luther and Ressa Franks Riddle, formerly of Laurens, and Ewell and Emma Jester Fuller, formerly of Clinton.Virginia was a 1963 graduate of Ford High School, where she played basketball, served as secretary of her class, and was selected as a senior superlative.Professionally, Virginia worked for over 30 years with the South Carolina Department of Social Services. During her tenure, she worked in several capacities to include Child Protective Services, Adoptions, and supervising clerical staff. Virginia was recognized numerous times for her outstanding performance. She was truly dedicated to the field of social work and had a genuine concern for the mission of the agency.Virginia's love for others led to her engagement with and support of the Laurens County Safe Home. She was also proficient in American Sign Language, which enabled her to assist persons with hearing impairment.Virginia was a believer in Christ and a long-time member of Lucas Avenue Baptist Church. Prior to experiencing health issues, she was a faithful member of her Sunday School class and the Sanctuary Choir.Her hobbies included reading novels and poetry, flower gardening (she had quite a green thumb), and she especially enjoyed challenging crossword puzzles. She had a good sense of humor, was fond of traveling and spending time at the beach or mountains. One of her favorite pastimes was a simple Saturday evening cookout at home with family.Virginia was a loving mother and cared deeply for her family and friends. She was affectionately known as "Grams" by her granddaughter, Ressa. Over the past decade, she was her greatest joy. Virginia was extremely proud of Ressa and often commented how much she loved and adored her.Virginia is survived by her brother, Daniel Richard Fuller of Laurens, two daughters, Rhonda Simmons Thompson (Michael) of Greenville and Kearston Simmons Moates of Laurens, a beloved granddaughter, Ressa Hayes Moates of Laurens, and many cherished cousins. She was predeceased by her daughter, Melody Lisa Simmons, son-in-law, RH "Bo" Moates, and former husband, Franklin O'Neil Simmons, all previously of Laurens.The funeral service will be conducted Monday, April 29, 2019, at 2:00 PM, officiated by Pastor Michael Post at Lucas Avenue Baptist Church in Laurens. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. The burial at Westview Memorial Park (6807 Westview Memorial Park, Laurens, SC 29360) is planned immediately following the funeral service. Condolences may be expressed to the family at https://www.thekennedymortuary.com/. Memorials may be made to Lucas Avenue Baptist Church, 101 Lucas Avenue, Laurens, SC 29360 or the Laurens County Safe Home, 1500 Western Square Plaza, Suite 60, Laurens, SC 29360.The family wishes to express special appreciation to her church congregation and many wonderful friends for their prayers, visits, cards, and loving support. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Virginia Fuller Simmons please visit our Sympathy Store.
Cemetery Details
Westview Memorial Park
5740 Highway 76 West
Laurens, SC, 29360
Visitation
APR 29. 1:00 PM (EDT)
Lucas Avenue Baptist Church
101 Lucas Avenue
Laurens, SC
Service
APR 29. 2:00 PM (EDT)
Lucas Avenue Baptist Church
101 Lucas Avenue
Laurens, SC