Charlotte Graves Simmons of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Ann Arbor, Adrian, Clinton, Ferndale, Milford, Carleton, Linden, and Highland, age 98, passed away Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born November 2, 1927, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Raymond & Marion Francis (Graves) Wint.
Charlotte was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church and was active in various roles including pastor's wife, choir director, choir member, accompanist, UMW officer, and Sunday School teacher. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Adrian College and taught early elementary in public school for eighteen years. She also taught Suzuki piano. Charlotte was active in the Chelsea Retirement Community volunteering in the library, serving on the Residents Council, and in participating in women's study groups. She and James were active in many social groups associated with the church, as well as Meals on Wheels and LEAC. Charlotte and James received the Adrian College Alumni Service Award and J.A. Baughman Church History Award. Charlotte enjoyed playing the piano, reading and knitting.
On Sept. 2, 1947, she married Rev. James G. Simmons in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and he preceded her in death on April 24, 2018. She is survived by her three daughters, Mary (Brian) Hughes of White Lake, Judi (Richard) Trenton of Gladwin, and Pamela Simmons of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; eight grandchildren, Brie (Matthew) LaLone, Cheryl Taylor, Erin (Ben) Stevenson, Melissa (Todd) Hohauser, Rachel (Brandon) Evans and Matthew Garza; and 9 great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Beverly Sykora.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Both Charlotte and James will be buried in the Chelsea Retirement Community Memorial Garden. Memorial contributions may be made to the UMRC Porter Hills Foundation. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
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