Joan Simmons, a devoted wife and mother, passed away on June 14, 2026, at the age of 84.  She was delivered by her grandmother, Tennie Dills Howell on July 16, 1941, to parents Wayne and Mildred (Andrews) Howell in Oregon County, Missouri.

Joan graduated from Alton High School and remained an active participant in alumni events throughout her life.  She married Roscoe Simmons on September 15, 1962, and together they raised their son, Randy.

Joan dedicated 34 years of her life to the USDA Farm Service Agency, working in both the Alton and West Plains locations. Her role involved assisting farmers with various programs and services.

Roscoe and Joan always maintained a beautiful lawn and garden that rivaled all others.  A visit with them was never complete without a tour of the beautiful gardens.  Joan's passion for gardening extended to sharing her beautiful flower bouquets with her church and family.  She was a long-standing member of Alton United Methodist Church.

Joan never missed a family gathering without bringing at least a couple of delicious dishes, and her baking was a highlight of many celebrations. She also enjoyed sharing her recipes.  She was talented at being the family photographer and historian.  She loved sharing old photographs with loved ones on their birthdays and special days. She also was wonderful in sending cards and letters to family members, near and far.

Joan simply loved doing things for her family, especially Randy.  She loved preparing meals for him and spending quiet moments with him listening to the birds. She also had a soft place in her heart for her pets, Toby and Red. Randy knew that she always enjoyed a new photo of Red when he visited at the nursing home.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Roscoe; her parents; one brother, Ronnie Howell; one sister, Judy Woods and her husband, Don; and one nephew, Scott Woods.

She is survived by her son, Randy Simmons, Alton, MO; brother, Eddie (Margie) Howell, Birch Tree, MO; sister-in-law, Linda Howell, Birch Tree, MO; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at Shiloh Cemetery, Alton, Missouri, officiated by Gary Dotson under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Mountain View, Missouri.  Memorial donations can be made to Shiloh Cemetery.  Condolences can be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.