BERNICE A. SIMMS

November 22, 1941 – October 31, 2022

 

ELKHART- Bernice Ann Simms, 80, of Elkhart, passed away Monday, October 31, 2022 at the Raclin House in Mishawaka. She was born on November 22, 1941 in South Bend to the late Gordon T. and .

On June 26, 1960, she married William F. Simms Jr. He preceded her in death on July 17, 2000. Bernice was blessed to enjoy a wonderful life with husband, William (Bill) Simms and missed him dearly when he passed.

Bernice was a graduate of Riley High School in South Bend and later attended Indian University in South Bend where she received an Associate Degree in Banking and Finance.

She was employed at Key Bank and served as vice-president from 1964 until 2002 prior to her retirement in 2002 She led an interesting 81 years of living with many friends and professional colleagues when she worked at the bank.

She was a member of Hillcrest United Methodist Church where she served on committees, helped greeting folks on Sunday morning, and supported the church’s special events. Additionally, she served as a board member and member of the volunteer association at the Humane Society of Elkhart County.

 She loved her job and really missed it when she retired. However, she filled her life with community activities and traveled every chance she could get.  Her favorite times were the safaris of Africa where she was fascinated seeing all the exotic wildlife --- especially the big cats! Her forever love of animals was hard wired in her DNA. Dogs.  She just never met a dog she didn’t like!  So it is not surprising that she was totally devoted to the Humane Society of Elkhart County serving in a variety of volunteer capacities ---- Board of Directors, Chair of the Volunteer Association, helping with community adoption events, working at the Red Barn Resale shop and supporting in any way that she could.

 Bernice felt she had been blessed in so many ways. We sometimes forget to just stop and breathe and say, “Thank you” to all those who have touched our lives in small and large ways. As she heads on to her new life journey, a sincere thank you is extended to all.

Thanks to all at Hospice who provided for Bernice's care and for your compassionate hearts

Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the 5:00 pm funeral service Monday November 14, 2022 at Hillcrest United Methodist Church, 4206 E. Bristol Street, Elkhart, IN 46514. Pastor Tracy R. Love -Rose will officiate. Burial will take place on Tuesday November 15, 2022 at 12:00pm at Rice Cemetery, Elkhart.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Elkhart County in memory of Bernice.

Walley-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home, 700 E. Jackson Blvd., Elkhart, IN 46516 is entrusted with her arrangements