Joy Jean Johnson Sander Simmons, 87 of Commerce passed away Tuesday, September 16, 2014 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born on February 26, 1927 to Ed and Connie Phelps Johnson in Orient, SD. She married Elwood Sander on April 1, 1944 and he preceded her in death on February 2, 1955. She later married J.D. Simmons on November 17, 1958 and he also preceded her in death on February 17, 2001. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many. She loved flowers, gardening, quilting, sewing, playing cards and spending time with her family. She lived in rural Scott County near Commerce most of her life. She was a member of the Parent Teacher Association, United Methodist Youth Leader, United Methodist Women's Club, Better Community Club and lifelong member of St. Paul United Methodist Church in Commerce. She is survived by four sons, Mark (Brenda) Sander, of New Hamburg, Keith (Pam) Sander of Cape Girardeau, Scott (Debbie) Sander of Commerce and Jim (Mary) Simmons of Benton; a daughter, Sherre Simmons of Commerce; a step-daughter, Sharon (Chris) Naas of Barlow, KY; two daughters-in-law, Regina Sander of Commerce and Dawn Sander of Oahu, HI;a brother, Jim (Golda)Johnson of Commerce; 14 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren and her loving pet JJ. She was preceded in death by three sons, Norman and Kevin Sander and Timothy Simmons; a step-son, Doug Simmons and a grandson, Brett Sander. Visitation will be on Thursday from 4:00 - 8:00 PM at Amick-Burnett Chapel in Scott City and on Friday from 10:00 AM until time of service at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Commerce. Funeral Service will be Friday at 11:00 Am at the church with Rev. Michael Woods officiating. Burial will be in Oakdale Cemetery in Commerce. Memorials may be sent to St. Paul United Methodist Church, PO Box 171,Commerce, MO 63742 or Oakdale Cemetery, 602 Harvard, Scott City, MO 63780.
