Wanda Kay Simmons, 51, of Gainesville, entered the sunset of life unexpectedly on Saturday, August 10, 2013. A native of Starke, she was born on Friday, September 29, 1961 to Joe Dean and Carrie Bell King. During her childhood, she resided in Palatka with her adopted parents, Jimmie & Rachel Dixon and was educated in the Putnam County School District. She was a 1980 graduate of Palatka High School. Subsequently, she earned her culinary certification from St. Augustine Vo-Tech Center. Wanda was a longtime member of To God Be the Glory Holiness Church in Palatka and served until her health declined. She was a retired chef at the former Holiday Inn Restaurant, Palatka. Wanda's hobbies include attending worship, listening to gospel music, helping others, cooking and cleaning. In addition to her adopted parents, she was preceded in eternal rest by her brother, Jessie Perry. Those who treasure her loving memories: mother, Carrie Bell King; father, Joe (Bobbie) Dean; siblings, Betty (Arthur) Glover, Perry Keton, all of Starke; Annie Jean (Rev. Johnny), Herring, Jasper; Annette (Willie) Clark, Lawtey; Angela (Michael) Harris, and Victoria Robinson, all of Gainesville; devoted nieces, Rachelle West, Gainesville; Rose Marie Simmons, Starke and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and caring friends. Visitation of family and friends will be 5-8 p.m. Friday, August 16 at "Flagg's Chapel of Serenity". The Homegoing Celebration will be 11 a.m. Saturday, August 17, at Bethlehem Freewill Baptist Church, 1103 Ash Street, Starke, FL., Elder Michael McDuffy, Pastor. Elder James Campbell, Sr., To God Be the Glory Holiness Church, Palatka, is the eulogist. Rev. V. A. "Vic" Givens, Free Cannon Church of God's Praise, Starke, is officiating. Interment will be in Clark Cemetery, Starke. The cortege will assemble at 10:30 a.m., Saturday at 612 McMahon Street, Starke.