Rever Simms

Rever Bell (Cross) Simms, was born on June 12 th 1944 to Oscar Cross Sr. and Mary Ethel Pittman in Hobgood North Carolina. In looking for a better life, Oscar and Mary moved their family to Cliffwood, NJ in 1948. Here in NJ is where Rever was Baptized in Jesus name at the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith; where, she worshipped, served and received the precious gift of the Holy Ghost. Rever also received her formal education in Cliffwood and would later go on to earn her Associates Degree in Accounting. In 1959, Rever married Jonah Simms. From that union they brought fourth four children, Sylvia Simms, Phyllis Simms, Lynette Simms and Corey Simms. Throughout her life, Rever held numerous positions. She was strong willed and always determined to do things her way. She was creative and an entrepreneur. She thrived at being a Mary Kay Consultant and opened her own Hat store with her sister Helen. In what would be her last official role in her career, she worked for the State of NJ Unemployment Department in their Work Force Development Division as an administrator. But, in July of 1999 at the age of 55, she suffered a debilitating stroke that subsequently ended her working career. Contrary to the doctor’s prognosis, through GOD’s Grace, her strong faith, her strong will power, and sheer determination, Rever did not stay down long. She fought her way back and learned how to walk, talk and drive again. For approximately 19 years after her stroke, she fought the good fight to live a normal life. However, like many champion’s she began to grow tired and on September 11 th 2018 at 8:45AM the Lord called her home to rest in his eternal bosom. Rever is predeceased by her parents Oscar Cross Sr. and Mary Ethel Pittman Cross; Her brothers: Nathanial Pittman, Calvin Cross and Hosie Lee Cross Sr. Her Sisters: Annie (Cross) Richardson and Bessie (Cross) Miller. She leaves to cherish her memory: Her children: Sylvia Jones of Cliffwood NJ, Phyllis Simms of Burlington NJ, Lynette Simms, of McDonough Ga, and Corey Simms of Greensboro, NC. (5) Granddaughters, Jennifer Finley, (Chris), Ashley Brianna Moore,(Tyrek) Asia Simms, Kyla Gumbs and Nyla Gumbs. (5) Great Grandsons, Christopher Finley, Jayceon Finley, Chance Finley, Jax Finley and soon to arrive, Aiden Josia Moore. One God Daughter (Lakesha, Renee Cross); (4) brothers: Oscar Cross Jr. (Gail), Frank Cross (Mary), James Evan Cross (Renee) and Zan Macon (Shirley). (2) Sisters: Mildred Reevey & Helen Bryson as well as her Sister from the Heart, Phyllis (Minks) Simon (and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and friends whom she loved dearly. Rever (Rebe) was one of the pillars of the Cross Family, was truly loved in return and will surely be missed. We would also like to extend a special Thank You to Bishop Omega Shelton of The Church of the Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith who, provided her with spiritual inspiration and words of comfort throughout the years. Along with her entire Apostolic Family. The Service of Resurrection For Rever B. Simms 11:00am Worship Processional and Viewing: “Total Praise.” The Entrance Sentences: Deacon Rodney Burris (please remain standing for the reading) “I am the Resurrection and the Life, saith the Lord: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live; and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth; and though this body be destroyed, yet shall I see God; whom I shall see for myself and mine eyes shall behold and not as a stranger. For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. For if we live, we live unto the Lord; and if we die, we die unto the Lord. Whether we live, therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s. Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord; even so saith the Spirit, for they rest from their labors.” Amen. Selection: “May the work I’ve done speak for me”. Ms. Barbara Perry-Clark Prayer: Deacon Andrew Scott Saxophone Soloist: “I Love the Lord ” Mr. David Cross Reading of the Scripture: Mr. Keith Cross I Corinthians 15:50-52 I Thessalonians 4:13-18 Revelation 21:1-4 Dance Selection: “ I look to you” - Nyla and Kyla Gumbs Acknowledgements/Cards: Barbara Cotton Reading Life Reflections: Sonya McBurrows-Moore Eulogy: Deacon Rodney Burris- Church of the Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith Selection: “Soon I will be done with the Troubles of this World.” Ms. Barbara Perry-Clark Benediction: Deacon Andrew Scott Interment: Shoreland Memorial Gardens Cemetery- Hwy 35- Hazlet, New Jersey Immediately following the interment, family and friends are invited to return back to the Matawan United Methodist Church, 478 Atlantic Ave, Matawan, NJ where a repast will be served. Services Entrusted To: Plinton Curry Funeral Home - 428 Elizabeth Ave, Somerset, NJ 08873 When Tomorrow Starts Without Me When tomorrow starts without me and I’m not there to see; If the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn’t cry the way you did today, while thinking of many things we didn’t get to say. I know how much you love me, as much as I love you; and each time that you think of me, I know you will miss me too. But when tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand that an Angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand. And said my place was ready, in heaven far above and that I’d have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But when I walked through heaven’s gates I felt so much at home. When God looked down and smiled at me from his great golden throne. He said “This is eternity and all I’ve promised you.” Today for life on earth is past, but here it starts anew. I promise no tomorrow for today will always last. And since each day's the same way, there’s no longing for the past. So when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart, for every time you think of me, I’m right here in your heart. Pall Bearers: Family and Friends Acknowledgement The family of Rever Simms acknowledges with sincere appreciation every thought and act of kindness expressed to us during our time of bereavement. We will always keep you in our prayers.