Janet Simmons

Tribute

Janet Simmons passed away on January 15, 2026 after a short illness. She was preceded in death by the love of her life and travel partner, her husband, Vernon, “Bud” Simmons. The two of them lived life like it was a continuous episode of “Amazing Race,” visiting forty countries and all seven continents with frequent jaunts to Las Vegas sprinkled between international trips. Janet is survived by her older sister, Bobbie Smith, and Bobbie’s now-grown children. What a privilege it was for Janet’s nieces, Lorri Downs and Kelli Noto and her nephew Scott Smith to grow up with a cool aunt. Janet was blonde and beautiful, a pompon girl at Hinckley High School where she graduated in 1970. She continued to cheer on the University of Northern Colorado Bears on its pom squad while she earned her teaching degree in 1974. Janet joined the Sigma Kappa Sorority where she built a friendship group that would last a lifetime. Her friend group, the “Sig Kap Five”,” as they call themselves, will miss her deeply. Janet never had any children of her own, but she had thousands of students, and she gave them her loving care. Janet spent her early teaching career in Special Education and working with the Special Olympics. Janet inspired both of her nieces and a young cousin to follow in footsteps as Special Education teachers. Later in her career, she taught High School English. Her favorite part of working in a high school was sponsoring the Junior class and helping the students to plan the prom. Janet definitely attended more proms than the average person and has the dresses to prove it. Janet is also survived by her stepson Beau Simmons. He’d probably tell you that having your Dad and your Step-Mom working at your high school is not recommended. Once Beau grew up, he became an accomplished chef, and Janet enjoyed eating his food. She enjoyed her retirement by driving a refreshment cart at Fox Hollow Golf Course. She was an avid Bronco fan and season-ticket holder. Janet loved dogs and left behind her beloved rescue Rosie (a dog) as well as her dear friend Eddie Williams (a human) who watched her dogs for decades while Janet traveled the world. Eddie is caring for Rosie now. Janet was simply a good person who will be missed by anyone who was lucky enough to know her. A memorial service will be held at a later date

Friends & Family