Stephanie Anne Simmons (nee Merrick)
January 24, 1947 - July 12, 2019
Funeral Details: Arrangements entrusted to Peaceful Transition Barrie
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved sister Stephanie Anne Simmons on Friday July 12, 2019. She will be remembered as a caring and extremely generous person always willing to help those less fortunate than her. Stephanie was born to Margaret and William Merrick of Barrie, Ontario on January 24, 1947. Throughout her childhood she was known for her mastery of anything she could put her mind to; be it her academics, piano, baseball or basketball. She was referred to by family as “Big Red”.
She attended the University of Toronto graduating as a Dentist in 1970. She practiced dentistry in Toronto until 2007 before retiring and returning to live in Barrie, Ontario. One of her lifelong passions was traveling. She ventured to Europe several times- falling in love with Greece. She had a love for cultures, philosophy, and religion. Stephanie recently rekindled her spirituality and found great strength and support from Bethel Community Church, which is gratefully appreciated by the family.
Stephanie is survived by her brother Bill Merrick (Jackie), and her nieces, Kamiya Merrick (Dutch) and Cassidy Merrick (Malcolm). She is also survived by her loving sister Debra Lynn (Merrick) Verbillis and spouse Michael Verbillis, and their three children, Sasha Verbillis-Kolp (Paul), Dimitri Verbillis and Anthony Verbillis. Stephanie will be sadly missed by her numerous cousins and friends.
In keeping with Stephanie’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or funeral. A private family celebration of Stephanie’s life will take place. Donations to the Canadian Mental Health Association on her behalf would be appreciated.
Roger and Cathy Merrick
Posted on: Sunday, July 21, 2019We send our prayers and thoughts to all the family at this sad time. So sorry for your loss.
Roger and Cathy
Gary Merrick
Posted on: Wednesday, July 24, 2019Those we love and lose are always connected by heartstrings into infinity.My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this very difficult time…cousin Gary.
David J. Moorley
Posted on: Friday, July 26, 2019It is with great sadness that I write this and yet I feel that Stephanie is in a better place. She was a strong Christian who accepted the Lord into her life. She was loved by many. I will miss our many phone conversations, sometimes lasting an hour or more. She helped anybody when she could be, they rich or poor. To her there was no distinction. My sister Vera was very fond of Stephanie and sometimes they got together for a meal. June Starr will greatly miss Stephanie as Stephanie always picked her up to go to bible study and grocery shopping. We have holes in our hearts that God is slowly healing. That’s the impact that Stephanie had on us. We pray for Bill and the families as they heal as well. Thank you, Stephanie for what you’ve taught us and brought to us with your love and generosity.
Walt and Sue Weaver
Posted on: Monday, December 23, 2019To Bill and Debra,
Steph and I roomed together during our first year at U of T. We had so much fun together. I was so sad to hear that she had passed. She had her struggles but everything in the obituary is so true. Remembering her kind
heart and fun spirit always. I certainly know that she is in a better place. Sending our condolences to you all.
Sue and Walt Weaver
Frank Deturse & Michael Hennessey
Posted on: Saturday, November 19, 2022Talking with my partner last night about Stephanie Simmons our lovely dentist of years gone by – who transfer her business on to St. Clair Dental Associates where we still are today. She was wonderful we had a long time association with her and she was very fair and helped me out in a number of ways when things were tough financially. We never forgot her. she was lovely sweet – did a fantastic job all the time and was always where for us. We had alot of laughs and fun conversations. I then ran to look her up and sadly found that she had passed away three years ago. She was lovely. May she rest in Peace.
Frank Deturse and Michael Hennessey
Long time patients