SPRUCE HEAD — Virginia A. ‘Ginny’ Simmons, 87, died peacefully, Monday, December 25, 2023 following a period of declining health, at Pen Bay Medical Center in Rockport.

Born in St. George, September 27, 1936, she was the daughter of Samuel and Evelyn Rackliff Archer. Educated in Spruce Head schools, she was a 1954 graduate of St. George High School.

While in Junior High, Ginny met her soulmate, a Port Clyde native, Howard Simmons. Following her graduation from high school, the two were married on October 3, 1954. Together they have made their home for over 69 years in the same spot in Spruce Head.

Ginny began her career in the medical field working as a switchboard operator at Camden Hospital. Later she moved on and worked for over 20 years for Dr. Phelps as his office manager, finishing her career with Dr. Cole.
When not busy working, Ginny kept busy making beautiful quilts, knitting and perfecting her already great cooking skills. She was known for her delicious apple pie, and when asked for the recipe, would always respond, ‘you just have to make it smell right.’

Ginny had a deep faith, and she and Howard have been active members of Littlefield Memorial Baptist Church for many years. There she served as a Deaconess and on the Board of Trustees.

In her younger years, she looked forward to annual summer motorcycle trip to Vermont with her children and their spouses, which always included a stop at Grandpa’s Restaurant and a trip to the jewelry store next door.
Ginny will be sadly missed by all who loved her.

Predeceased by a son, Dale Simmons in 2014; Ginny is survived by her beloved husband, Howard, of Spruce Head; her daughter, Laurie Pierce and her husband Donald of Owls Head; her son, Brian Simmons and his partner Kelly Sturks of Spruce Head; four grandchildren, Jeremy Pierce and his wife Julie of Cottage Grove, Minnesota, Amanda Pierce of Warren, Lt. Daniel Pierce of Columbus, Georgia, Samuel Simmons and his wife Erika of Spruce Head; and one great-grandson, Sammy J.

A celebration of Ginny’s life will be announced at a later date.

To share a memory or condolence with the Simmons’ family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.