In Memory
Bernice Ann (Cooley) Simms
November 22, 1941 ~ October 31, 2022
Bernice Ann Simms, 80, of Elkhart, passed away Monday, October 31, 2022 at the Raclin House in Mishawaka. She was born on November 22, 1941 in South Bend to the late Gordon T. and Mary Jane (Sanders) Cooley.
On June 26, 1960, she married William F. Simms Jr. He preceded her in death on July 17, 2000.
Bernice was a graduate of Riley High School in South Bend and later attended Indiana University in South Bend where she received an Associate Degree in Banking and Finance.
She was employed at Key Bank and served as vice-president from 1964 until 2002 prior to her retirement in 2002. Following retirement, she filled her life with community activities and traveled every chance she had available. Her favorite times were the safaris of Africa where she was fascinated seeing all the exotic wildlife, especially the "big cats".
She was a member of Hillcrest United Methodist Church where she served on the ministry council. Additionally, she served as a board member and member of the volunteer association at the Humane Society of Elkhart County.
Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the 5:00 p.m. funeral service on Monday, November 14, 2022 at Hillcrest United Methodist Church, 4206 E. Bristol Street, Elkhart, IN 46514. Pastor Tracy R. Rose-Love will officiate. Interment will be held on Tuesday, November 15, 2022 at 12:00 noon in Rice Cemetery, Elkhart.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Elkhart County in memory of Bernice.
Walley-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home, 700 E. Jackson Blvd., Elkhart, IN 46516 is entrusted with her arrangements.
Posted online on November 10, 2022
Published in South Bend Tribune
11.11.2022 djb
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