Obituary of Ann Denise Simmons

ANN DENISE "De" SIMMONS Clifton Park- Ann Denise "De" Simmons, 62 of Clifton Park and formerly of Latham passed away peacefully with her family and friends by her side on Tuesday, June 30 at Community Hospice at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady. Born in Troy on June 13, 1947, she was the daughter of the late Robert T. & Eileen F. (Farrell) Simmons. She most recently was a 'cheese connoisseur' at Price Chopper. De was clever and smart, having "once upon a time" been a psychologist in education, she decided life was more meaningful and turned to enjoying what she liked most. Through meeting Brian her craft business, Designs by De was reborn as a florist. Her greatest pleasures revolved around her cats, cooking, gardening, the love of Maine, camping and sailing on Lake Ontario, a glass of wine and soft music. Denise devoted her life to her family and friends. She was known to say (very quietly opinionated) "If you don't want to know the answer, don't ask the question." Denise fought a strong battle with cancer, never letting it control her life or attitude. Her humor, courage and strength will to go on, and was an inspiration for many. Denise is survived by her loving sister Adele Middaugh of Stratford, Ct, Willis McGillis and Winnie de Pooh, her adoring cats, faithful friends Brian Schell and Michael Frazier of East Schodack and Vickie Farro of Clifton Park, and Pappy as well as her 2nd cousin Ken Siple of Watervliet. We wish to thank every one involved in her last journey with us: Her Doctors and staff at NY Oncology Group, Riverview in Rexford, who allowed her to drive the "Bus" and rode with her all the way through this difficult journey, those at Gilda's Club for their insight and support, the entire Palliative Care and Hospice group who built the bridge of support that sustained her over the difficult times and the Nurses and staff at Ellis Hospital who made her last days very peaceful and respected her wishes. We thank you all. In keeping with her wishes there will be no visitation. A Celebration of Denise's Life will be held Monday July 6 at 10:00 am in the chapel at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 498 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham Donations in the Memory of De's life may be made to: Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, Community Hospice of Schenectady, 1411 Union St., Schenectady, NY 12308, Gilda's Club, One Penny Lane, Latham, NY 12110, or to the charity of your choice.