Joan L. Vanmatre

Danville- Joan L. Simmons Vanmatre, 90, of Danville passed away at 11:18 PM on Tuesday, February 19, 2013 at North Logan Health Care in Danville. She was born on December 21, 1922 in Paris, IL to Cordis and Bonnie Quinn Richardson, and further raised by her Step-Father, Ernest Blair. She married David Vanmatre in Danville. He preceded her in death in 1983. She is survived by her four children Cheryl Simmons of Murfreesboro, TN, Deborah Caudill of Danville, Mario Simmons of Willard, UT, Ernest Simmons of Danville; nine grandchildren, Charlie and Cynthia Varner, Donovan and Darcy Lack, and Matt (Martie), K.C., Mitchell, Kyle, and Samantha Simmons; 8 great-grandchildren, Quentin, Cody, Devin, Daxon, Landon, Memphis, Wyatt, Kambree ; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Richard Ashley, and sister, Norma Jones. Joan worked for several years as a CNA at St. Elizabeth as well as Lakeview Hospitals. She went on to serve as an LPN at the Veteran's Administration until her retirement. She was also a member of the AFGE Local # 1963. Joan had been a member of the Church of Jesus Christ and the Latter Day Saints in Danville for over 50 years. She held many positions there and always loved to be involved in Church functions. She also loved to dine out, go shopping, and camp as a member of Indian Springs. Joan was an animal lover, and especially loved her dog Sassy and her cat Whitey. Joan's family would also like to extend a special thank you to the staff at North Logan Health Care for their excellent care and compassion. She enjoyed participating in the daily activities provided by the activity department. A service to celebrate the life of Joan Vanmatre will be held at 3 PM on Sunday, February 24, 2013 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home in Danville. Brother Aaron Julian will officiate. Visitation will be from 1 to 3PM prior to the services on Sunday, also at Sunset in Danville. Burial and graveside committal service will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, February 25 at Edgar Cemetery in Paris, IL with Bishop William Fulton officiating. Flowers are welcome, but the family will appreciate donations made to the North Logan Health Care activities department. Please join Joan's family in sharing memories, photos, and video of her life through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.