Tracy Lynn Simmons

Tracy Simmons life-long dream came true on April 17, 2022, when she was finally able to look into the eyes of her beloved Savior, Jesus Christ. Her heart is full, satisfied and completely at peace in His presence now.

Born in Miller, S.D., on Sept. 1, 1972, to the late Keith and Judy (Pickinpaugh) Harvey, Tracy was blessed with both a younger brother, Justin, and a younger sister, Angela.

Tracy met Shannon Simmons in Searcy, Ark., during her freshman year at Harding University. Of Shannon, Tracy said, “He was, and is, my best friend.” After she graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work the two were married in 1994 and thus began their 27 years of building a life together. Some of the most abundant and beautiful fruit from this union would have to be their 12 children: Meredith (Weston) Byler, Carter, Claire, Hunter, Sophie, Olivia, Thatcher, Hosanna, Archer, Cooper, Tanner and Amelia. Of the joys and pains of motherhood, Tracy said, “The reason I have 12 children is because I wanted to trust God with every part of my life ... and it was the hardest thing I've ever done.”

Tracy enjoyed growing herbs outside, decorating her home and cooking meals for her family. She also liked making crafts but as the busyness of life allowed little time for that, she saw cooking as her main creative outlet. With so many students in the home, Tracy spent the bulk of her days teaching. She enjoyed finding new ways to help them learn and it tickled her that she taught her own children to read. She especially liked making up games for them to engage in.

No commentary of Tracy's life would be complete without mentioning the medical trauma that she endured in December of 2017. God's power and care were certainly on display after the birth of Amelia as He miraculously saved them both.

A favorite activity of Tracy's was worshipping Jesus through song. She said, “I really, really do love Jesus. I picture Him when I worship and I'm really excited to meet Him.”

She is survived by her loving husband, Shannon; her 12 cherished children; brother, Justin Harvey of Del Rapids, S.D.; sister, Angela (Jeff) Fitzgerald of Sioux Falls, S.D.; nephews, Parker and Zachary Harvey, Peyton and Christopher Fitzgerald; and a niece Kayla Snelling.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, April 23, at Rinehart Christian Church, in Richards, Mo., with Pastor Kevin Moyers officiating. Interment will follow in Rinehart Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 to 7 p.m., Friday, at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.

View obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.