January 24, 1982 – December 4, 2025
The life of Jennifer Lynn Simmons may have been brief, but the love she brought into the world is still here, alive in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her passionate spirit and joyful soul. Jen was a daughter, sister, auntie, mother, and force of nature. She is preceded in death by her heavenly baby, Lucas Murphy Tullis, whom she never met in life but now holds tightly in the purest peace and comfort.
Jen is missed beyond all belief by her entire family. She is survived by her loving mother, Doris J. McDaniel; father, Mark A. Simmons; and stepmother, Karen Simmons. She is deeply missed by her sister, Kristi Olson Brother-in-law John Olson; brother, Eric Simmons; and stepsister, Anjali Eck. Jen was a friend and trusted ally to her nieces and nephews, Carver Dyck, Violet Simmons, Tyler Penney, Henry Knight, and Jailyn Wildner, as well as grandnieces Penelope and Phoebe, and a grandnephew who will know her only by her legacy of generosity and sincerity. She is missed daily by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and her former husband, Andy Tullis. She had more friends than I can name.
Jennifer was born January 24, 1982, in Stayton, Oregon. She grew up in Salem, Oregon, and graduated from Stayton Union High School. A longtime resident of Bend, Oregon, Jen also made her home in Las Vegas, among some of her most treasured and lasting friendships.
From the very beginning, baby Jenni was a bright light in our lives, displaying a sharp mind and an early zest for learning. She famously mastered her alphabet before the age of two, a testament to the curiosity and intelligence that would define her life. During her grade school years, Jen participated in the Talented and Gifted (TAG) program, where her intelligence, creativity, and collaborative spirit were already evident. As she transitioned into junior high, her natural social skills truly began to flourish. She had a rare gift for making others feel seen and heard, becoming a social heartbeat within her circle of friends and family.
Known for her impeccable work ethic and rapier wit, Jen knew success and fulfillment both professionally and personally. She laughed with her whole belly, spoke with her whole chest, and believed fully in the power of positivity. Always with her heart on her sleeve, Jen valued honesty and loyalty to and from those she loved. If you are picturing her now, she is almost surely laughing. If you can hear her voice, she is probably the one making the joke. If your heart is broken, know that your grief is in good company.
Our dearest Jen, may you know only love forever and ever.
“Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.”
— Mary Elizabeth Frye
