Jean Simmons, age 73, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away on January 27, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her memory will forever be a warm and comforting presence.
Born in Wilmington, in February 1951, Jean was the loving daughter of Eleanor Sund and Harry Durbano. She and her cousin Roger Sund, having both lost a parent at a young age, were raised together by their mothers as siblings, and shared a close bond. From her days at Mount Pleasant High School, where she enjoyed baton twirling in the color guard and spending time with friends, to her dedicated career as a registered nurse at Christiana and Wilmington Hospitals, Jean poured her heart into everything she did. She demonstrated her commitment to lifelong learning, earning her bachelor’s degree later in life from Delaware Technical Community College, a true testament to her drive, determination, and unwavering spirit. Her career as a nurse was a true calling; she possessed a natural ability to bring comfort to her patients and cherished the many friendships she made with her co-workers.
Jean was a woman of many passions. Her love of dance, which began in her childhood at Anna Marie’s Dance Studio, stayed with her throughout her life. She always had a playful spirit and a way of lighting up the room. Jean’s childhood summers were filled with the joy and laughter of neighborhood pool parties, and she treasured the countless friendships she forged, many of which would become incredibly important to her, deeply enriching her life and the family that she and Tom would create. Beach trips, when her children were younger, were filled with memories of fun and laughter made with friends and often highlighted by lively games of 31. She loved to travel and was always eager to explore new places and cultures, much of which was enjoyed with her loving partner Randy, who loved, cared for, and supported her through everything. She loved the life she had with him, and the relationships she built with his sons, William and Corey, along with their wives, Aly and Rebecca, and their children. Her love for animals was boundless, and she opened her heart and home to many creatures in need, including the lucky fox who enjoyed his own special meals in her backyard. She always looked forward to gathering with friends, new and old, to catch up over a good meal. She loved shopping, the thrill of a good yard sale or browsing the racks of thrift stores, especially when shared with someone close. Above all else, Jean loved her family. Her children and grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she showered them with unconditional love. She was the heart of her family, and the glue that held them all together.
Jean was predeceased by her husband, Thomas Simmons. She leaves behind her children, Donovan Simmons and Casey Duncan; her adored grandchildren, Ella and Riley Simmons, and Henry and Sydney Duncan; her devoted life partner, Randy Ryan; her cousin, Roger Sund, and many others.
A celebration of Jean’s life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to share stories and remember the remarkable woman she was. She will be laid to rest at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jean’s memory to the Brandywine Valley SPCA, an organization close to her heart. Jean’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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