Paula Cecilia Simmons, a beacon of love and creativity, passed away suddenly on July 26, 2024, in Ottawa, at the age of 80, surrounded by her family and Elvis. Born on January 17, 1944, in Arkansas, Paula’s life was a vivid tapestry of devotion to her family, community service, and a passionate embrace of the arts.
Paula’s journey with her late husband, Colonel David Simmons, was one of adventure and adaptability, moving to many cities like Ottawa, St. Bruno, Kingston, and Lahr, Germany. She was a cherished mother to Tony (Corinna) and Jennifer (Jeff), and a loving grandmother to Noah, Jonah, Ryan, Ben, and Jaime. She also leaves behind her Arkansas family; sisters Judy and Cookie, and brother Jay.
A graduate of Henderson State, Paula taught first grade and shared her love for ceramics and arts and crafts with veterans at the Rideau and Perley Veterans’ Health Centre. A talented painter, Paula’s home was always decorated with her artistic vision. Known for her baking, she delighted family, friends, and neighbors with her delicious creations.
A faithful attendee of McPhail Memorial Baptist Church, Paula found a second family in its congregation. Her faith and community spirit were integral to her life.
We celebrate Paula’s life, a path well-traveled, and a woman who was truly one of a kind. Her light will forever shine in the lives of her family and the many people she touched.
A celebration of life will be held at Beechwood Cemetery (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, ON) on October 19th from 1:00 pm to 3:00pm.
Digital Guestbook
Tony Simmons
Rick Barker
Col Dave was my flight commander in my first squadron, 427. He was one of the most talented and gifted officers whom I ever met. Paula was the epitome of a senior squadron officer’s wife. What I remember most is that, in 1976, 427 Sqn received its ‘colours’ for 25 years of dedicated and honourable service and Paula undertook to create a 12 x 20 foot rendition of the squadron flag, using differently coloured Kleenex tissues. With her team of squadron wives, and drawing on her abundant artistic talent, she did a fabulous job. The finished product was a centrepiece of the presentation weekend which was presided over by the Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario.
Berny & Elizabeth Couture
Dear Tony, Jennifer and family,
Although we are unable to join you for the celebration, please know that we are with you in spirit. We have so many fond memories of our time with your folks in several postings, but particularly in Lahr, where 444 was family. One Christmas, Paul organized a potluck dinner at the Squadron cantine so that the people on duty could also celebrate the holiday. Both Dave and Paula were very special and caring people. We admired them and we miss them.
Dave Rooke
As an old friend of the family, I am saddened to hear of Paula's passing. Sincere condolences.
Herm and Laurel Harrison
So sorry to hear of your Moms passing, Tony and Jennifer.
We have many wonderful memories of Dave and Paula from our time together in Portage.
Herm had the pleasure and privilege of serving under Dave. Col Simmons always sought perfection and tolerated Herms mistakes with great compassion. He was a man of understanding and forgiveness. And Paula was the ultimate senior officers wife and mother. They both took the two of us under their wings in Portage.
And thank you two for being such great babysitters for Mike and Melanie.
God bless you all!
Herm and Laurel Harrison
Denny Hopping
I was the LOH flight Comd on 427 with Dave and Paula. Awonderful couple and Paula the consumate wife and Sqn member. We will miss them both. Safe travels over the bridge
Gabe Leclerc
Paula was such a warm and welcoming person, you immediately felt at ease in her company. Our sincere condolences for your loss, she will be missed. Gabe and Robyn
Paula was a dear and valued…
Paula was a dear and valued colleague at our volunteer work. She was a creative and fascinating lady with so much going on in her life. She entertained us with her stories and her artwork--created and sold to support so many causes. I feel that I know her grandchildren personally. They were so central to her life.
Last spring she gifted me a bag of sewing thread which we needed for repair work at the 'Shop'. Each time I pull out a spool of her brightly coloured thread I am reminded of Paula's vivid and warm personality. Thank you Paula for gifting us the joy of your being.
With much love and in rememberance of a dear friend. Nancy
Allan Cooper
Sorry to hear about Paula’s passing. As another army aviator who had many postings over the years with Dave and Paul’s and as well as Dave’s DCO in 444 Sqn I got to know them well and we had many pleasant dinners together. I planned to attend the Celebration of Life, but sorrowfully circumstances prevent me from attending. Tony and Jenifer, stay strong.
We are looking forward to Celebrating the life of my and Jenny's, kind, loving, fun, happy and supportive mother, gran gran and friend to so many. We love you mom.