Alice N. (Allyson) Simmons

Alice N. (Allyson) Simmons, age 82, of Benton, joined her heavenly family and her Lord on December 21, 2014. She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Dr. Bill Simmons, and their four wonderful children, Dr. Rusty Simmons (Karol) of Benton, Stephanie Conrad (Lynn) of Castle Rock, Colorado, Allyson Leigh Simmons (Shannon Johnson) of Little Rock, and Dr. Creighton Simmons of Benton. "Grandmother" had nine beautiful grandchildren: Rebecca Conrad (Mark) of Raleigh, N.C., Dr. Jennifer Zierlein (Dr. Steele) of Benton, Bradley Simmons of Fayetteville, Will Simmons of Benton, Brynne Simmons of Fayetteville, Collin Simmons of Benton, Lola Simmons of Little Rock, Maya Johnson of Little Rock, Cain Simmons of Benton. Allyson was born on September 7, 1932 in Cullendale, Ark. She was preceded in death by her parents D. Autrey and Lola T. Newman. Allyson is survived by her sister, Bettye Conard of Little Rock, brothers Buford Newman of Arkadelphia and Ted Newman of Benton, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. She was a graduate of Ouachita Baptist University, the business manager for Simmons Eye Care from 1962 to 1988, volunteer receptionist for Saline Memorial Hospital from 2002 to present, and an active member of First Baptist Church since 1957. She was a Red Hat Lady and supporter of CJOHN. Special thanks to Dr. Joe Martindale for his longtime friendship and his continued closeness and support of our family during the sudden and brief illness prior to her death. The family is also very grateful for the care and kind consideration of the staff at Saline Memorial Hospital. Funeral arrangements are by Ashby Funeral Home. Visitation is on Tuesday, Dec. 23 from 6–8 p.m. at First Baptist Church. The funeral service is Wednesday, December 24 at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church under Pastor Rick Grant. Burial will be at New Rosemont Cemetery in Benton. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Saline Memorial Hospital, CJOHN, or the music ministry of First Baptist Church in Benton.