Lyda Monell Simmons

Lyda Pickett Simmons, 90, of Spartanburg, SC passed away peacefully on May 17, 2026.

Lyda was born on April 28, 1936, to the late Clarence and Effie Pickett. In many ways, she was a trailblazer in her day. She was the first in her family to attend college and later earned her PhD in Christian Counseling from Southwestern Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. She worked as a therapist for many years and, after retirement, faithfully volunteered as a hospital chaplain.

Lyda loved the Lord deeply and dedicated much of her life to church ministry. She played the piano, taught children’s choir, and led numerous Bible studies over the years. She was known as a strong prayer warrior, a woman of integrity, and someone who made everyone feel welcome in her home.

Lyda is survived by her daughters, Kathye Scriber (Charlie) of Ruston, LA, Tracye Beacham (Billy) of Grandview TX, and Kelli Wolfe of Spartanburg, SC. She was blessed with eleven grandchildren, Ben Shy, Jacob Shy, Mallor Linck, Chris Van Hoy, Jonathan Van Hoy, Billy Beacham III, Brooke Smallbone, Jordan Beacham, Chase Wolfe, Carson Wolfe, Cooper Wolfe; and 24 great grandchildren. Lyda was predeceased by a daughter, Donna Van Hoy, and her beloved husband, Eugene “Gene” Lee Simmons.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Southside Baptist Church in Spartanburg, South Carolina. A memorial service will immediately follow at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in memory of Lyda Simmons to Southside Baptist Church, 316 S. Church St., Spartanburg, SC 29306.

Her family rejoices knowing she is now home with the Savior she faithfully loved and served throughout her life.