Wanda Michelle Simmons Warden

Wanda Simmons Warden was a caring mother, sister, aunt, and friend. Her battle with a serious medical condition in recent years showed her courage in facing life’s challenges with a smile. She entered into eternal life on November 29, 2022.

    Wanda was born to the late Welton F. Brown Sr. and Inez Gladys Brown on February 27, 1959, in Hampton Virginia. She was preceded in eternal rest by her brothers Welton Brown Jr., and Richard Brown, and sisters Gladys Taliaferro, and Mildred Stigger. At an early age, Wanda accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her savior at Grays Missionary Baptist Church in Hampton Virginia where she served as a Sunbeam choir member and a Junior Usher.

    Wanda “Smokey” attended Hampton Public Schools, graduating from Pembroke High School in 1977 as a Mighty Pirate. She participated in numerous sports while attending PHS. Wanda was a track and field star securing the name “Smokey”. Wanda’s real passion was cheering and she held the title of team captain. Upon graduation, Wanda entered the career field of food services and became a manager at Kentucky Fried Chicken. While managing at KFC, she attended the Career Medical Institute for Laboratory Technicians, where she became an employee of Sentara Hospital. Smokey’s next journey took her to Alcoholic Beverage Control where she also became a manager. Later in her career, Wanda was employed by Hampton City Public Schools as a special education instructional assistant. Her love for food service continued, and she ended her career working for Bojangles on Commander Sheppard Boulevard in Hampton, Virginia. 

    Wanda enjoyed traveling which led her to become a member of the Corvette Club. Her love for being around others often led to her cooking for family and friends. Wanda was a member of the Langley Village Resident Council where she continued her love of service.

    Wanda is survived by her two sons Samuel Leon Simmons Jr. and Jason Lamont Simmons as well as her nine grandchildren Jamaica Pittman, Samuel Leon Simmons III, Samiyah Chappell, Samara Jackson, Ava Seminario, Jason Simmons Holley, Jayshaun Simmons, Jasmir Simmons, and Brielle Simmons. She also leaves behind four sisters Amy Hebron (Larry), Virginia Brown, Doris Brown-Moses, and Tammie Weaver; numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and a host of friends. 

    Wanda left her mark on everyone that she touched and there are no words to describe how much she will be missed.

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