Thelma Mae Simmons

Thelma Jordan Simmons was born February 1, 1945 in Knoxville, TN. Thelma went home to be with the Lord on June 3, 2021.

She was welcomed home by her second husband James Simmons, her first husband Richard Dotson, her mother Laura Jordan Freeman and her father B C Holloway.

Thelma was a licensed cosmetologist for over 30 years and was an ordained minister. Thelma was the eldest of 11 children, and she ran the family like she was the mother of all until the end. Thelma ministered to and shared her wisdom with many. She loved her family but also loved everyone in her life. Her spirit and compassion for others was known by all. Her life was not about her but was always about others. She never met a stranger and never forgot a friend.

She is survived by her loving children Leonard Dotson, Teresa Dotson Ferguson Smith (and spouse Dale) and Jose Dotson. Thelma also adored her grandchildren, Leonard’s children, Leonard Dotson Jr. (and spouse Stephanie and children), Thomas James Dotson (and spouse Tracy and children), Jasmine Crawford (and spouse Trey), and Christy Dotson and, Teresa’s son Trever Ferguson. Thelma was pre-deceased by siblings Alfredda Jordan, Vivian Freeman and her brother Willie Jordan.

She is survived by siblings (and Spouses) Tina Robinson, Reverend John & Diane Jordan, Margaret Blair, James “Bull” Jordan, Candice Miller, Diann Moulden, Rickey & Connie Freeman and in-laws Marie Isom and Ronald Dotson. Thelma left behind a host of loving nieces and nephews and their families. Thelma leaves her devoted friends Gay Gause, Sister Ann Upton, Sister Linda Smith, the Isom family, the Mynatt family, the Mitchell family, the Willingham family, to Oglesby family and her church families at Overcoming Believers Church (Pastor Daryl Arnold) and Peace & Goodwill Church (Reverend John Jordan). She cherished her neighborhood friends Mary Ann Bailey, Marzella Allen, Silvia Brown, Greg Stuart, and Howard and Carolyn Hollingsworth.

Thursday, June 10, 2021, a public walkthrough is scheduled from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Overcoming Believers Church, 211 Harriet Tubman Street, Knoxville, TN.  Social distancing and face coverings are required.

Friday, June 11, 2021, a home-going celebration will begin at 11:30 a.m. at Overcoming Believers Church with Pastor Daryl Arnold as the eulogist.  Social distancing and face coverings are required.  Interment will follow at Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, 5901 Lyons View Pike, Knoxville, TN, where a white dove release will conclude the service.  Flowers may be delivered to the church Thursday and Friday mornings.  Professional arrangements entrusted to Patton Funeral Home, Brian L. Buckmon, LFD 1-800-824-8283 or www.pattonfuneralhome1962.com

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