Susie Keyes Simmons

Asheville Susie Keyes Simmons, 101, resident of Givens Estate, passed on Friday, September 12, 2014. Mrs. Simmons was born April 10, 1913 in Madison County, the daughter of the late Will Keyes and Govie McLean Keyes. She was a graduate of French Broad High School (1931); retired from American Enka Corporation after 46 years. Susie enjoyed playing basketball during high school and continued with the American Enka Team in local, regional and national tournaments. She remained an active member of Calvary Baptist in West Asheville for over 50 years. She was very active in the community until the last few years; American Legion (served as president of the West Asheville Auxiliary) and volunteer at Oteen VA, St. Joseph and Memorial Hospitals. Her strength of character, values, leadership, honesty, love and generosity for her family and friends were evident throughout her 101 years. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Ernest Keyes, Howard Keyes and Richard Keyes; four sisters, Katherine Parker, Blanche White, Willa Mae Arnold and Frances Virginia Keyes; four nephews, Warren Parker, Bruce Keyes, Harvey Keyes and Cleve White. Survivors are four nephews, Howard Keyes, Jr., Robert Keyes, Jack Keyes and Jimmy Keyes; two nieces, Pauline Cogdill and Susie Ann Davis. Celebration of Life service will be held 2:30 PM Sunday, September 14, 2014 in the chapel of Anders-Rice Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. Buddy Corbin officiating. Burial will follow in Ashelawn Gardens of Memory. The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to services at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Calvary Baptist Church, 531 Haywood Road, Asheville, NC 28806.