Ramona "Mona" Marie Simmons, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Raymore, Mo., on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, at the age of 71.
Funeral services were held Nov. 22, at Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, Mo. Interment followed at Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville, Mo.
Born on July 18, 1954, in Longmont, Colo., daughter of Edwin and Hazel (Miller) Johnson, she was raised in Grand Meadow, where she developed a strong sense of community and family that would follow her throughout her life. She married Charles "Chuck" Simmons on June 9, 1979, in Austin, Texas, and shared not only her life but her passion for adventure with him. Together, they traveled extensively, creating memories with close friends along the way. She was never one to shy away from a trip, cherishing the experiences they brought.
Her academic dedication led her to earn a bachelor of science degree in business administration and a master's degree in management from Baker University in Baldwin City, Kan. With her Chartered Property & Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation, associate in risk management, and commercial lines coverage specialist designation, she excelled as a commercial insurance underwriter. A member of the International Association of Insurance Professionals and the Society of Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriters, Ramona's contributions to her profession were marked by her commitment and integrity.
Ramona was also an ordained minister, holding a special place in her heart for performing baptisms and weddings, including the recent wedding of her daughter. Her faith was a guiding force in her life, and she was an active member of Lord of Love Lutheran Church in Belton, Mo. Mona will be remembered for her spirited nature, quick wit and nurturing heart. She embraced each role she took on throughout her life, especially as a devoted mother to her three children: David, John and Jenifer. She found immense joy in the lives of her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren. It was through her family that Mona truly shone, gathering them with love and ensuring that holidays were held in the gentle warmth of her love and generous spirit.
In her final days, Ramona was supported by the compassionate staff at Apple Orchard Hospice and her loving family members, Paula and Kay, whose care and dedication made an immeasurable difference during this time.
Mona was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Charles "Chuck" Simmons; her brothers, Dean Johnson and Duane "Bud" Johnson; and her sisters: Kristine Hager, Kathryn Sievers and Ruth "Mary" Johnson.
She is survived by her children: David (Laura) Simmons, John (Mary) Simmons and Jenifer (Susan Walker) Shepard; her grandchildren: Nathan Simmons, Brandon (Lauren) Simmons, Sam Tyner, Marshall Tyner, Aidan Shepard and Addison Shepard; her great-grandchildren, Bryer Simmons and Weston Simmons; and numerous extended and bonus family and friends.
