Obituary Photo

Donna Best Simmons, 69

Click link to view Donna’s Memorial Video

Donna Best Simmons, 69 of Green Cove Springs, FL passed away Friday, February 16, 2024.  Donna was born in Augusta, Georgia to the late Hillard and Audrey Poulin Best and moved to Jacksonville early in life where she grew up.  She had been a resident of Clay County for the past 43 years where she worked with her family on local dairies, but her real love was floral design.  While designing at Joni’s Roses in Orange Park, Donna was a natural fit for wedding flowers.  Even after retiring, Donna continued her floral work for churches and many of her family and friend’s special occasions.

Donna enjoyed a good shopping trip, spending time on the boat, and being with family.  She was “Everybody’s Friend”, never met a stranger and was a good person to all who knew her.

Donna was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Gerald Simmons and her sister, Kay Goodman.  She is survived by her husband, Mike Jay; son, Gerald (Taylor) Simmons; daughter, Cindy (Bobby) Oakley; step-children, Michael Jay, Ericka Jay, Chrissy (Rick) Heffner and Sabrina (Mike) Hartsell; sister, Lee Best; dear friend, Brenda Wright; was “Nana” to her grandchildren, Clayton, Kalee, Cameron, Landon, Cayson, Carter, and Regan; great grandchildren, Easton, Karmen, and Clover; as well as many extended family and friends.

Memorial Services will be held 11:00 AM Friday, February 23, 2024 in the Chapel of Russell Haven of Rest with Jack Yocum officiating.  A time of visitation will begin at 10:00 AM prior to services.

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL  32043.  Family and friends may share their condolences at: www.RHRFH.com 904-284-7720