Janette Delores Simmons (née Williams, formerly Marr) passed away on Monday, June 9, 2025, in her home in Huntingtown, Maryland.

She was born on October 30, 1932, in Selma, Virginia, the first child of Dahlvis and Dwight Campbell Williams. Her grandparents, Hettie Jane and James Maydian, affectionately known as Mama and Papa, held a special place in her heart. She spoke of them often and with great fondness throughout her life.

Janette had four siblings: Dwight Campbell Williams, Jr. (Mary), James David Williams (Linda), Sandra Kay Smith (Mike), and Jonathan Daniel Williams (Paige). Most reside in Virginia, with the exception of Dwight Jr. in Maryland.

She graduated from Central High School in Low Moor, Virginia, and pursued her passion for learning and service. Janette earned her Master’s Degree in Nursing from the University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus and had a long, meaningful career as a Registered Nurse. Over the years, she held various roles, from Head Nurse in the Intensive Care Unit at Prince George’s Hospital to Substance Abuse Coordinator at the Calvert County Health Department to long-time supervisor at Calvert Memorial Hospital.

Throughout her adult life, Janette formed many lasting friendships and explored a wide variety of interests. She was a member of Emmanuel United Methodist Church and the Southern Maryland Rock and Mineral Club. She practiced Reiki healing therapy, loved pets of all shapes and sizes, and enjoyed spending time in nature, especially at Craig’s Creek in Virginia, where she will be laid to rest.

Janette was married to Robert Simmons for over 51 years at the time of her passing.

She and Edward Charles Marr had seven children: Mark Edward Marr and Dwight David Marr, who both passed away in infancy, and five surviving children—Cynthia Louise Marr, Eric Edward Marr, Linford Campbell Marr (Dawn), Tara Lynn Brauns (Robert), and Laura Rozengota (Joseph). Mark and Dwight are buried alongside their father at Arlington National Cemetery. Janette was also step-mother to Paula Atkins (Shannon) and Kevin Simmons.

From her five living children, Janette had 15 grandchildren: Nicholas Suthard and Courtney Shanklin (Cynthia’s children); Eric, Edward, and Guillermo Marr (Eric’s children); Emma Marr (Linford’s child); Robert, Joshua, Julia, and Sophia Brauns (Tara’s children); and Erik and Samantha Salzman, Ashley Mora, Mia Rozengota, and Regan Rozengota (Laura’s children); as well as 6 children and 8 grandchildren from Paula and Kevin. Her grandchildren shared many fond memories with their grandmother, from attending ballgames and dance recitals to making memories at her home, Havenwood.

She was also blessed with more than 20 beloved great-grandchildren, and her family continues to grow. Janette is survived by many other loving relatives who will always hold her spirit in their hearts.

The family of Janette Simmons has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake.

Janette’s memorial service will be livestreamed via the Rausch Funeral Home Facebook Page.