Leola (Cremer) Simmons

Leola Cremer Simmons was a vivacious woman, full of life, joy, and a whole lot of love to give. Born on February 24, 1948, in Miami, Florida, she grew up in Menlo Park, California, where she graduated from Ravenswood High School in 1966.

Leola’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith and deep love for the Lord. A devoted member of the Greenville Avenue Church of Christ, she touched countless lives with her kindness, humility, and service. Whether through her church involvement, offering words of encouragement, or lending a helping hand, she exemplified what it meant to walk in faith and love.

Leola was baptized as a young woman, solidifying her lifelong devotion to God. Her faith was deeply rooted in her family’s spiritual foundation. Her father, Marion Cremer, was the song leader at the Church of Christ of Palo Alto, and Leola’s connection to the church remained a guiding light throughout her life.

Leola was outgoing and full of charisma, traits that endeared her to everyone she met. She loved spending time with family and friends, often gathering with them to play card games or dominos, where her competitive streak and love of the game always stood out. She brought energy and joy to every game, creating cherished memories for all who played alongside her.

She also nurtured her creative side by joining the choir and taking cooking and sewing classes, honing talents that brought her and others joy. Her love of cooking was one of her many gifts, and her meals were cherished by all who had the pleasure of sitting at her table. Her red velvet cake was a family favorite and will remain a cherished memory for years to come.

In 1981, Leola met her beloved husband, William Elmer Simmons, at Bachman Lake on a hot summer day. Their meeting sparked a love story that lasted 33 years, during which they built a beautiful life together and raised four children: Brian, Keisa, Kareem, and Madison (Jasmine).

Leola’s role as a grandmother and great-grandmother was one of her most treasured blessings. Her love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren knew no bounds. She delighted in their laughter, celebrated their achievements, and nurtured them with the same warmth and care that defined her life. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her immense joy, and she made each one feel uniquely loved and cherished. Her presence at family gatherings was a source of strength and inspiration, and her legacy of love will live on through the generations she helped shape.

Leola’s warmth and selflessness were evident in every aspect of her life. She had a gift for making people feel valued and loved, and her home was a sanctuary of comfort and joy. Though she enjoyed simple pleasures like spending time with loved ones and sharing her talents, her greatest joy came from her faith and her family. Her vibrant spirit and steadfast devotion to God inspired those around her, and her legacy of faith will continue to guide and uplift her family and friends for generations to come.

Leola was preceded in death by her husband, William Elmer Simmons; her parents, Helena and Marion Cremer; and her siblings, Marion Jones, Diane Jones, Lucille Cremer, and Ronald Cremer. She is survived by her children, Brian Foster, Keisa Simmons, Kareem Simmons, and Madison Love (Jasmine); her goddaughters, Laquisha Johnson and Delia Flores; her siblings, Loretta Slaughter, Joyce English, Vivian Jones, and Bettie Foster; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and countless friends and loved ones who will forever cherish her memory.

Leola’s life was marked by love, grace, and unwavering faith—a life well-lived and devoted to God.

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