Martha E. (Suggs) Simmons, age 86, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2026. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, and a loyal friend to many.
Martha was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 56 years, James B. "Jim Brack" Simmons, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and unwavering companionship.
She leaves behind her children, Michael (Karen) Simmons, Braxton (Heidi) Simmons, and Martha (Dan) Oddo. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to J.D. (Katie) Oddo, Jenna Oddo, Jillian Oddo, Cierra (Will) Schandera, Delaney (Jason) Simmons, and Eli Simmons, MaKensie Simmons & Hanna Simmons. She was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Lynnde Oddo and Roman Schandera.
Martha is also survived by her sisters, Edith Penia, Merle Spurlock, and LaVerne (Herman) Rainey, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless dear friends.
For more than 40 years, Martha dedicated herself to her career at Brandon State Bank, which later became SunTrust and eventually Truist. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she was deeply committed to serving her community. As a past president of the Brandon chapter of the American Cancer Society, she helped bring Relay For Life to eastern Hillsborough County and played an instrumental role in advancing smoke-free workplaces throughout Florida.
While Martha's accomplishments were many, the greatest joy in her life was the time she spent with those she loved. She and Jim Brack treasured their days together, especially at the family ranch, though they were happiest simply being together wherever life took them. Martha delighted in hosting sleepovers with her grandchildren, welcoming everyone to Saturday night fish fries, and creating a home where family and friends always felt welcome. In recent years, she especially enjoyed shopping trips to the mall with her sisters, lunches at LongHorn Steakhouse, and dinners at Jesse's with longtime friends.
Martha's kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and friends will be remembered always.
Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched, the traditions she created, and the love she so freely gave. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
Previous Events
Visitation
7
Jul
10510 Riverview Dr.
Riverview, FL 33578
Graveside
8
Jul
10232 FL-674
Lithia, FL 33547
