Sallie Faye Ainsworth Simmons, 83, of Magee, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on

October 9, 2026, at Windsor in Columbus, Mississippi.

Born on July 3, 1943, in Simpson County, Mississippi, she was the daughter of Albert Floyd Ainsworth and Tina Bell Cox Ainsworth.

Sallie graduated from White Oak High School in 1961. A woman of many talents, she was a dedicated homemaker in her early family years, a passionate piano teacher, a self-employed business owner, and a valued employee in the airline industry until retirement.

Sallie was a woman who marched—and sang—to the beat of her own drum. She lived her life with an independent spirit, a fierce intellect, and a heart that was tuned to a beautiful melody. She lived her life guided by unwavering spiritual devotion and a steadfast commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

To know Sallie was to know a person who looked at the world through the twin lenses of deep faith and endless curiosity. She was a woman who truly lived a life marked by the pursuit of truth. A lifelong avid reader, Sallie believed that books were a valuable treasure, and her home was famously filled with stacks of literature, histories, and biographies. Yet, among the thousands of pages she turned throughout her lifetime, there was one book that stood entirely apart. For Sallie, the Holy Bible was not just a religious text; it was her compass, her daily bread, and the ultimate Book of Wisdom.

Sallie’s life was defined by her deep, unconditional love for her family. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the absolute center of her world. She consistently put their needs, dreams, and happiness above her own, sacrificing tirelessly to ensure they always felt supported and loved. Her family will forever remember her as their ultimate protector, cheerleader, and rock.

Sallie’s life was filled with independence, grace, and harmony. She didn’t just listen to music; she lived it. Whether her fingers were dancing across the piano keys, strumming chords on her guitar, or singing along to her favorite melodies, music was her truest expression and her gift to everyone around her.

Later in life, after her children had grown, Sallie decided to pursue a dream she had long deferred. Entering college as a non-traditional student, she proved that it is never too late to reinvent oneself. She brought a lifetime of wisdom to the classroom, outshining expectations and excelling academically. Sallie was a graduate of East Mississippi Community College, where she earned an Associate of Arts in Business Administration in 1992. She went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from Livingston University in 1994.

In addition to her brilliant mind and big heart, Sallie possessed a rare discipline regarding her personal wellness. Long before it was a trend, she treated her body like a true temple. She was deeply mindful of what she consumed, dedicating herself to eating only healthy, nourishing foods. Remember her motto, minimum medications and absolutely no MSG!! Her dedication to fitness was equally steadfast; she was an active, passionate walker her entire life, finding joy, clarity, and peace on every trail she traveled.

Even when faced with the challenges of Parkinson’s disease later in life, Sallie met her diagnosis with the same quiet strength and dignity that characterized her entire journey. She refused to let the illness dim her spirit, continuing to focus on health, family, and gratitude until the very end.

She is survived by her son, Donald Clyde Simmons Jr. (Bernika); her daughter, Virginia Darlene Gardner (Grant); her grandchildren, Donald Simmons III, Sallie Metcalf (Griffin), Mary Merrill (Connor), and Tripp Gardner; her precious great-grandchildren, Walker Metcalf, Jack Metcalf and Shepherd Merrill; and her brothers, Albert Floyd Ainsworth Jr. and Jacob Burton Ainsworth.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert Floyd and Tina Bell Cox Ainsworth; and her sisters, Eva Bell Mozingo and Julia Ann Ainsworth.

Pallbearers will be Grant Gardner, Steven Mozingo, Connor Merrill, Griffin Metcalf, Tripp Gardner, and Joseph Turner.

A visitation will be held on October 16, 2026 from 10:00 am until the funeral service at 11:00 am at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home in Magee, MS. Burial will follow at Merchant Cemetery in Raleigh, MS. Dr. Shawn Parker will officiate. Colonial Chapel of Magee is in charge of arrangements. 601-849-5031