Verba Jean Simmons, age 74, of Lake Station and formerly of Lansing, Illinois passed away Monday October 30, 2017 at St Mary Medical Center in Hobart.  Jean was born December 17, 1942 in Monticello, Arkansas to the late William Edward and Nola (Curtis) Midkiff.  She was a beloved mother and grandmother.  She loved quilting and crocheting.

Jean is survived by her daughter, Kimberly (Rudy) Mlynski of Portage; her son, Timothy (Ye-Pun) Simmons of Queen Creek, Arizona; two grandchildren, Zachary and Taylor Mlynski; eight brothers and sisters, William Midkiff of DeWitt, AR, Mary Keistler of Little Rock, AR, Arthur Midkiff of DeWitt, AR, Debra Daniels of Gary, IN, Linda Fields of Bryant, AR, Rebecca Whittaker of FL, Yvonia Sue Meeks of MS and Pamela Sweetin of Tichnor, AR; and many nieces and nephews.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents and loving husband, Thomas Simmons, her brother, Charles Midkiff and her sister, Elvie Ramshur.

Funeral services will be 11:00 am Saturday November 4, 2017 at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel 5341 Central Avenue Portage, IN 46368.  Visitation will be from 9:00 am until the time of the service at 11:00 am at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.