Della Gerlene Ward Simms, 89, of Utica, KY passed away on Tuesday, July 2, 2019 at Diversicare in Greenville, KY.

She was born on September 23, 1929 in Madisonville to the late Ova Ward and James Grady Ward, Sr. Gerlene was a member of Richland Missionary Baptist Church. She enjoyed quilting, baking and spending time with her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Douglas Lovan Simms; and her brother, James Grady Ward, Jr.

Survivors include her daughter, Donna (Doug) Raley of Utica, KY; granddaughters, Samantha (Erin) Raley of Utica, Jessica (Gage) Raley of Louisville, KY and Emily Wilson of Utica; grandson, Corey Douglas Wilson of Utica ; great-grandson, Theodore Douglas Raley of Utica; and several nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 5, 2019 in the chapel of Harris Funeral Home in Madisonville with Bro. Jim Lantrip officiating. Burial to follow at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Madisonville.

The visitation will be from Noon until the funeral hour Friday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Gerlene's memory to Hospice of Western Kentucky. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.