Obituary: Alberta Mae Simmons, March 15, 1933 - July 6, 2020

Alberta Mae Simmons was born on March 15, 1933 in Houston, Texas.  

In earlier years she grew up in Houston, Texas and her teenage years were spent in Berkeley, California, graduating from Berkeley High School.  

She met and married Solomon F. Simmons and to this union of 28 years, four children were born.  

This devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend was always there to support anyone in need.  

Alberta wore many hats throughout the years.  Whether it was volunteering as a PTA president, Girl Scout leader, working for the Oakland California Public School District, King Elementary School in Northeast Portland,  a member of “The Magnificent Seven” and so many other organizations or an activist who spoke her mind, she was a woman of strength.  

That is why the last hat she wore, co-founding Housing Our Families, was an important organization in the community.  Everything she did or touched was about helping others.  

Like many other Pioneers that are recognized, remembered and who will never be forgotten for enhancing the lives of others in the community, Alberta Simmons was a true role model and made a difference by not just talking about it, but doing something about it.  

This woman accomplished the unthinkable, but it was through the grace of God, determination and the will to succeed and many years after her demise “The Alberta Simmons” building for seniors  will carry on in honor of her and what she envisioned for the elderly. 

Alberta Simmons received her wings of gold on July 6, 2020 and she survived by four children: Valerie Simmons, Frederic Simmons, John Simmons and Alicia Simmons; 11 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and her brother Archie Harvey. 

Services will be held at Truevine M.B.C., 4735 N. Commercial on Friday July 17, 2020 at 11:00 a.m.

Arrangements entrusted by Cornerstone Funeral Home.