Creative and Committed Judy Simmons Serves as an Inspiration for Her Sons

Judy Simmons was born on February 1st, and she went on to become a cheerleader in high school. Scott Simmons was born within five days, in the same hospital, and he went on to become a tight end in high school. The two met in the academic halls despite being born in the same medical hall.

Fast forward to today and Judy has raised a family that includes her sons Shane and Craig Simmons, and her four grandchildren as well.

“Her and my dad have always been an incredibly strong team,” said her son, Craig. “They work together to address their wants and needs. Mom is resourceful, communicative, and will go to war to defend her family.”

Judy’s unwavering support was heavily relied upon during her husband’s battle with cancer. “The support she illustrated during my father’s cancer battle is a great example of how, why and when you want her in your corner,” said Craig. “I am lucky to have grown up with two amazing parents.”

Ironically, one of Shane’s more enriching memories comes from this time: he recalled a story after one of his father’s surgeries where the family played a game reciting family members’ names backwards, going through roughly 15 relatives.

“We had to be careful so my dad didn’t bust his stitches from laughing, but my mom couldn’t hold it in,” Shane said. “It was a moment I’ll never forget.”

Growing up, Judy enjoyed taking camping and road trips with her sister, Mary, and their parents. Now with a family of her own, Judy still enjoys the outdoors, as she can often be found playing tennis and “spending hours out in her garden,” Shane said.

Her energy and drive are themselves admirable, remarked Shane. “She is go-go-go. She won’t sit down until 11 p.m. to watch the news and doesn’t go to bed until 1 a.m. only to get up at 7 and do it all over again. For me, I’m exhausted by 10:30!”

Craig further emphasized the importance of this passion, noting that “it’s her secret weapon to accomplish all of the things she has accomplished in her life.”

As a mother, Judy was sure to shower her sons with love and support. She would spend time on helping with papers and class projects, but also on instilling valuable lessons.

“She’s also always modeled love and support for her friends and family,” Craig recounted. “As a new father myself, I can see how these learnings have made me a better man, husband and father.”

Judy emphasized the importance of making mistakes to learn from, reminding her sons this every day before they left for school.

Both of her sons also remarked on her dedication to spreading kindness and grace to others. “She has taught me to be open minded; that everyone is different and unique,” recalled Shane.

Judy’s creativity sparks awe in her sons as well. For example, she compiled all of Shane’s sports t-shirts from growing up into a quilt – an exhibit of her unique perspective.

“The things she has made over the years have been amazing,” exclaimed Shane, noting that she rarely uses inspiration from the internet. “I wish I had her creativity and mind,” he added.

This extends to general resourcefulness and problem-solving as well. Judy has been able to repair a number of toys and clothes over the years. She has even made devices such as hand splints from scratch.

“It makes me wonder how she can do all that,” Shane said.

Now a grandmother, Judy applies her creativity with them to come up with heartfelt gifts and ideas for parties. “The love she has for them is so genuine and she really tries to bond with each one individually,” Shane explained.

The love and affection Judy’s sons have for her shine brightly. Now each with families of their own, Shane and Craig continue to pass on what Judy has taught them.

“Her confidence is motivating, her kindness is infectious, and her support is so genuine that I know I can always count on her,” Shane said. “She is a rock. She held our family together.”

Craig expounded, “She is someone that I deeply cherish and appreciate for her presence in my life. I would do anything for my mom.”