"Precious in the sight of the LORD Is the death of His saints.  ~ Psalms 116:15

Rodella Smith Simmons was born October 11, 1939 in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. She was the daughter of the late Walter Smith and Lillian Jamison Smith. On Monday morning, December 16, 2019, she entered into eternal rest.

Rodella was educated in Berkeley County public schools. She also attended Darlington Technical College and MUSC School of Dental Medicine where she was certified as a Dental Hygienist and a Dental Assistant. She was employed for 29 years with Gore Dentistry in Goose Creek, South Carolina and five years with Webb Dentistry in Bamberg, South Carolina.

Rodella was united in Holy Matrimony to Henry L. Simmons, Sr. on April 21, 1957. To this union four children were born: Iris Elaine Simmons (preceded in death), Henry L. Simmons Jr., Fabian Simmons (preceded in death) and Velma T. Simmons.

Rodella was an active member of Greater St. James AME Church and served faithfully. She was a member of the Steward Board, the Stewardess Board, the Jubilee Choir and the Kitchen Committee.

Rodella enjoyed gardening and cooking. She loved flowers and planting. She was an excellent cook and was famous for her chocolate cakes and coconut pies. She will be remembered for her loving heart, her kind and gentle spirit and her unwavering faith in God.

She leaves to cherish her memory: a loving husband, Henry L. Simmons, Sr.; her children, Henry (Sylvia) Simmons, Jr. and Evangelist Velma T. Simmons; two grandchildren, Matthew (JaNece) Simmons and Jasmine (Maris) Pichon; two great-grandchildren, Clover Simmons and Journee Pichon; five siblings, Eliza Peace, York Smith, Mary Harleston, Julie Mazyck and Walter (Ruby Lee) Smith; in-laws, Dorothy Smith, Sarah Simmons, Curlin (Virginia) Simmons, Envie Simmons. Sinclair Jackson and Geraldine Simmons; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

In addition to her children Iris and Fabian, Rodella was preceded in death by: siblings, Lizzie Pou and Moses Smith; in-laws, James Simmons, Clarence Simmons, Annie Lee Simmons and Rose Jackson.

A Home Going Celebration will be held Thursday, December 19, 2019, 1:00 p.m., at Greater St. James AME Church, 1831 Jedburg Road, Summerville, SC. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Viewing and Visitation with the family will be Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.