Mrs. Maureen Lutoria Simmons Thomas

On August 29, 1950, Malcolm M. and Mary Augusta McPherson Simmons welcomed their 6th child, me, MAUREEN LUTORIA SIMMONS, into our family in Fayetteville, NC. There were 3 more siblings after me and with the fortitude of all 9 of us, we managed to gather together during my lifetime so that I could be able to actually sit down and write about the good, bad, hilarious and strange times that we experienced during our growing up years. It took me 12 years to "travel" chapter to chapter, but it was finally published as "Just One Unbeatable Family" (my sister Ida's suggestion).
Joining Beaver Creek AME Zion Church (Renamed Simon Temple) at age 13, l ended up working for the Lord in quite a few church functions. Helped committee for years that sponsored Christmas, Easter & Black History programs. Served over 20 years as an usher and for over 25 years I was the Assistant Vacation Bible Schoo Director. I worked faithfully for years as the recording secretary for the Missionary Society, the Christian Education Dept. and our Church Sunday School.
Had labored for 35 years with the local Telephone Company and after retiring from that place in 2003, worked for 10 years with the Fort Bragg School System.
My loved ones who have gone on before me were: my parents, "Mac" &
"Gussie" Simmons; 3 of my brothers: Tony, Terry & William Simmons; and 1 sister-cousin Flora Seaford Mclver.
Praying for those whom I left behind: my husband Franklin; my sisters: Maggie Smith, Kathy Simmons and Ira LeGrande (Lloyd); my brothers: Hubert Simmons (Beverly) and Malcolm A. Sr. (Marcella); 4 more sisters-in-law: Linda Yearns, Dell
McKoy, Barbara and Marie Simmons; and a bunch of wonderful nieces, nephews, cousins & friends. To all: Work, for the night is coming!