Darlene Marie Simmons

Darlene Marie (Fortwengler) SimmonsDarlene Marie Simmons, 78, of Markleville, passed away on April 2, 2017. She was born in Anderson, IN on December 28, 1938 to the late John Benard Fortwengler and Marie Elizabeth (Huhn) Fortwengler. She graduated in June 1956 from St. Mary's Catholic School in Anderson, and in August married Jerry Lee Simmons. Together they raised five children. Darlene enjoyed spending time with her family, knitting, and working in her yard. She also loved her cats and dogs, and she had a passion for helping stray animals.She will be missed by her four sons, Jerry Lee Simmons II (wife: Ruby) Pendleton; Scott Andrew Simmons, Georgia; Anthony Ray Simmons (wife: Trinna) Anderson; Christopher Allen Simmons, Markleville, her daughter, April May Short, Warsaw; 14 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Jerry Lee Simmons and seven siblings.A Celebration of Darlene's life will be held on Wednesday at 6:00 PM at Ballard and Son's Funeral Home, 118 S. 5th St. Middletown, IN with Pastor Katherine Murray officiating. Visitation will be 4:00 pm to 6:00PM P.M. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be directed to Madison County Humane Society with envelopes available at the funeral home.The Ballard Family is honored to celebrate the life of Darlene M. Simmons.Online condolences may be expressed at www.ballardandsons.com SERVICES Visitation Wednesday, April 05, 20174:00 PM - 6:00 PM Ballard and Sons, Middletown 118 South 5th Middletown, Indiana