Rae Harris Simon

Rae (Harris) Simon, born in Youngstown, Ohio, August 18, 1932, passed away peacefully in her home on June 13, 2024. She is survived by her daughters, Beth Carter and Wendy Dudley, her son-in-law, Tom Carter, her grandchildren, Steven (Taryn) Dudley, Todd Carter, Robert (Becky) Dudley, and Lara Carter, and great-grandchildren, Ryan, Lyla and Evan, as well as her sister, Sylvia Ehrenfreund and dear nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her cherished husband of 53 years, Leland (Lee) M. Simon, and son-in-law Richard Dudley. Rae was a devoted and loving person and was loved dearly by her family and all who knew her. She radiated a genuine kindness and was quick with her sweet smile, making those around her feel special and appreciated. She made friends everywhere she went. She never tired of hearing about "the kids," seeing family pictures or wanting to know if we "got home safely." She was a gentle soul who had much strength, intelligence and determination and worked hard. She could beat you in Scrabble easily by double digits and enjoyed playing Mahjong and many board games, was especially good at Rummikub which she expected to win, and if she didn't, she'd want a rematch. She had a lot of fun going shopping and would find the cutest bargains every time.
She grew up the youngest of four, close with her brother and sisters. There was always laughter and funny antics. Lee and Rae met in Youngstown, and moved to Takoma Park, MD after they married while Lee finished his Navy Service. They went back to Lowellville, OH as they started their family, and then bought a home in Boardman, OH where they spent their early years. Their next move was to Cherry Hill, NJ for a few years before moving to Maryland. They started in Hyattsville MD, then bought a home in Wheaton, MD where they settled with their family, until retirement. They enjoyed their final years together at Leisure World, MD. Rae worked for the Montgomery County Government, mostly in the school system and then the Department of Transportation. Rae and Lee were a happy, sweet couple who enjoyed camping especially in their trailer, ballroom dancing (she urged him on and he carried the beat beautifully) and spending time with family and friends. She was a graceful swimmer and swim-teacher as well as a dedicated exerciser. Always looking young and beautiful at any age, Rae brought much laughter, love and joy into our lives.
Rae is interred at Judean Memorial Gardens.
Remembrances can be made by donating to a Parkinson's or cancer charity of your choice, or making someone smile with an act of kindness.