Obituary of Estella Simons

Estella Simons (née Jackson), 83, slept away peacefully on August 21, 2023, surrounded by her family leaving a legacy that will forever echo in the hearts of those touched by her presence. Born to Cecil Jackson and Myrtle Morris, Estella grew up under a loving family with her beloved brother, Sonny, and sister Linda (affectionately known as Merle). She was born in St. Andrew, Jamaica W.I. and was the eldest of her siblings. Her childhood was filled with laughter, curiosity and adventure. She pursued her education in the public schools of Jamaica, where her passion for learning and vibrant spirit shone brightly and where she made life-long friends. In her earlier years in Jamaica on a providential day she met the love of her life, Hopeton Kingsley Simons, and life has never been the same again. She often smiled and sometimes chuckled as she reminisced about their earlier life together. Estella’s journey through life was magnified by her love and devotion to her soulmate. The two married and together built a beautiful life centered on love, resilience, and unwavering support. Blessed with six children, Clovis Simons (Lori), Simone Simons-Hewitt, Garfield Simons (Cheryl), Roxanne Simons-Johnson, Mignone Simons-Judge (Eric) and Hopeton Simons, Jr, (Rachel), their bond was unbreakable, rooted in the foundation of love and unity. Both Estella and her devoted husband migrated to United States with their then-young children in the 1960’s to embark on their next adventure and what they believed were limitless possibilities for themselves and their family. They initially made their home in Hartford, Connecticut, then soon moved to the suburbs in South Windsor, Connecticut. Estella was a stay-at-home mom for many years and made their house a home. Estella’s greatest joys were found in the legacy she raised as her children and their spouses fostered a family filled with love and compassion, honoring the values instilled by their beloved mother and father. Her very presence made the house a home. She had an unmistakable presence about her, a personality so bright and a warmth and love that exuded to all whom she met. Her contagious laughter and sense of humor provided all who entered the house a sense of joy, belonging and comfort. Her kindness extended to anyone who entered her home. She was an amazing cook. Everyone knew where they were going for Thanksgiving and that was Mommy’s house. She loved to cook and entertain showing off her culinary skills. She was an avid gardener of vegetables, flowers and fruit trees. She enjoyed a good harvest and was especially proud of her fruits of labor - mangos, oranges, avocados, ackee, and lemons. She could talk to you for hours on the benefits of each plant or fruit. It was such a joy to be in her presence as one would learn so much from her. As her young family matured enough, she embarked on her professional journey in the healthcare industry as a Nurse’s Aide dedicating countless hours helping others while working at Hartford Hospital. Her compassion, diligence and unwavering commitment to her patients made her a beloved figure at the hospital. She worked at Hartford Hospital for over 20 years until her early retirement. As a young adult, Estella professed her faith in Jesus Christ and became a member of the New Testament Church of God in Hartford, Connecticut. Oh how she enjoyed serving God and loved to sing. She was a member of the adult choir, women’s ministries and a faithful servant of God. She would pray with those who were sick in the hospital and visit with those who were sick at home. She was prayer warrior. When she prayed for and with you, you felt the presence of God. She lived her life in such a way that those who didn’t know God came to know Him because they knew her. Her unwavering faith and steadfast devotion to her spiritual community touched the hearts of all those who crossed her path. After retiring in 1996, Estella and her husband, Hopeton, moved to Punta Gorda, Florida, where they both became members of the Church of God of Prophecy. Estella continued her passion for serving God and the community with her new church family. Estella is predeceased in death by her parents, beloved husband, Hopeton, and brother, Sonny. She leaves to cherish her memory her six children and her beloved sister Linda Merle Heaven. Her influence will forever live on through her 12 grandchildren: Connie, Sharnelle, Clovis Anthony, Kristen, Christopher, Michael, Latoya, Ashley, Gary, Justin, Jordan, and Ian; seven great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson who were fortunate enough to experience the unconditional love and wisdom she bestowed upon them. She leaves a host of beloved nieces and nephews, family and friends. We celebrate Estella and the remarkable life she lived and immeasurable impact she made on the lives of those around her. Her presence will be sorely missed, but her legacy of love, compassion and perseverance will forever remain in the lives of those fortunate enough to have known her. The Family of Estella Simons wishes to thank Tidewell Hospice Care, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Church of God of Prophecy and Charlotte Memorial Funeral Home.