Esther Simons

Esther Simons, affectionately known as “Vuvie” to many, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family on November 1, 2023 at the age of 93. She was born on May 27, 1930, on the beautiful island of Bermuda to her parents, Manuel Bento Perry and Amalia Bento Perry.

Esther was married to her devoted husband, Joshua Simons, on June 8th, 1950, for 55 years until he passed in 2005. Together, they raised three children, including their daughter Linda, who passed away at 18 months old. Esther is survived by her daughter, Sandra Price, and her husband, Edward, and her son, Ronald W Simons, and his wife, Laurette.

Esther was one of eight children and came from a close-knit and loving family. She is survived by her beloved siblings: Frank B. Perry and wife Emily (deceased), John B. Perry and wife Mary, Joseph B. Perry and wife Natalie, and Donald B. Perry and wife Gloria. She is predeceased by her siblings Manuel B. Perry and wife Leontina, Fernance B Perry and wife Janice, and Mary DeSilva and husband George (deceased).

Esther was a cherished grandmother, devotedly known as “Vuvie,” to nine grandchildren: Cory Price, Kristin Price, Brian Price, Amelia Price, Megan Braun, Michael Scotti, Ronald W Simons II, Danielle Ruediger, and Zoe Simons. She also leaves behind seven great-grandchildren: Josiah, Cory, Isabella, Zachary, Adam, Ethan, and Jaxson as well as many nieces and nephews.

In 1967, Esther and Joshua made the journey from Bermuda to Harwich, where she began working as a private duty CNA. Remarkably, she continued to care for others in this capacity until the age of 89, when she retired. Esther’s dedication to her work and her compassion for those in her care touched the lives of many.

Esther was a woman of unwavering faith and deep love for the Lord. Her selflessness knew no bounds, as she opened her heart, arms, and home to countless people. She never allowed anyone to leave her home hungry; she was always cooking, baking, or ensuring that groceries were provided to her friends and family.

An avid gardener, she found solace in nurturing the beauty of the earth. She cherished her time spent at Red River Beach with a lobster roll from Brax while listening to the sounds of the ocean. Her independence was a source of pride, and she continued to live on her own until age 92 when she moved in with her son Ronnie and daughter-in-law Laurette.

Esther will be remembered by many for her kind and generous soul, her strong faith, her delicious Portuguese food, and her vibrant and spicy personality. Her legacy of love and selflessness will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate to know her. She leaves a void that can never be filled, but her memory will forever be cherished in our hearts.

A celebration of Esther’s life will take place on November 20th at 11:00am at South Chatham Community Church, 2555 Main St, South Chatham. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to VNA Hospice in Esther’s honor.