Samantha Iris Simmons, 41, passed away on July 23, 2026. She was born on August 31, 1984, in Kirksville, Missouri, to James Allen Simmons and Debra Lynn Shahan Simmons.

Samantha grew up in Queen City, Missouri, and graduated from Schuyler County High School. During high school, she attended the Kirksville Area Vocational Technical School, where she studied child care.
She later briefly attended Moberly Area Community College.

At the age of 19, Samantha moved to the St. Louis area, where she worked as a nanny for twin boys while also caring for their grandmother. She had a caring heart and found fulfillment in looking after others.

Samantha was a person who spent much of her life trying to overcome obstacles with determination and resilience. Through every challenge, she was deeply loved by her family and friends, who stood beside her unconditionally. She had a vivid imagination, an independent spirit, and a wonderfully eccentric personality. She never hesitated to share her thoughts and opinions, and her honesty was one of the qualities that made her unforgettable.

Those who knew Samantha also knew she never met a stranger. She could strike up a conversation with anyone and genuinely cared about the people around her. Even during times when she was facing struggles of her own, she remained concerned for the well-being of her friends and those she loved.
Samantha enjoyed an active childhood and was involved in Schuyler County 4-H, participated in Flag Corps, and competed in softball, track, and field. She had a lifelong love for cats and a special place in her heart for all animals.

Above all else, Samantha loved her children. She is survived by her children, Rowan, Chloe Belle Simmons, and Elizabeth Jewel Joiner. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Destiny Joiner.
She is also survived by her parents, James Allen Simmons and Debra Lynn Shahan Simmons, of Kirksville; her brother and sister-in-law, Jamie and Ashley Simmons; her nephew and niece, Lucas and Avery Simmons; her uncle and aunt, David and Lisa Shahan; her aunt, Mickey McElwee; her uncle and aunt, Steve and Connie Williams; her uncle and aunt, David and Amber Williams; her aunt and uncle, Dana and Chad Bond; her aunt, Angela Martin; her grandmother, Carmalita Williams; along with many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Dorsey Shahan; her grandmother, Lois Elaine Williams; and her grandfather, Donald Simmons.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to an education fund established for Samantha's children. Donations may be made to the account established at Alliant Bank in Kirksville, Missouri.

Though Samantha's life was far too short, she leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, compassion, and unforgettable individuality. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A graduate of Schuyler County High School, Samantha lived life in her own unique way. She had a big imagination, an independent spirit, and a personality that was truly one of a kind. She could be wonderfully eccentric, never afraid to be herself, and she always had an opinion that she was more than willing to share. Those who knew Samantha understood that her honesty, individuality, and sense of humor made her unforgettable.

Though Samantha's journey was not always easy, her life touched many people. Her creativity, outspoken nature, and the love she had for those closest to her will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

A celebration of Samantha's life will be held on Saturday, August 29, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the 4-H Building in Greentop, Missouri. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the life of Samantha Iris Simmons.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to an education fund established for Samantha's children. Donations may be made to the account established at Alliant Bank in Kirksville, Missouri.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Arrangements were taken care of by Travis-Noe Funeral Home of Kirksville.