Elizabeth Simkins Obituary

Elizabeth Neal Simkins, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, homemaker, and professional, passed away peacefully at the age of 100, having lived a full century marked by love, faith, family, and Southern grace.

Born and raised in Greenville, South Carolina, Elizabeth "Lib" was the daughter of Oliver Franklin Neal and Mertie Evans Neal. She was predeceased by her parents and her two beloved brothers, Carlos and Francis, and her granddaughter Hope who no doubt welcomed her home with open arms.

She was the cherished wife of the Late Former Mayor and longtime Councilman of Greenville, James Harrington Simkins, for 50 years. Together, they built a life grounded in devotion, faith, and family. Elizabeth was a longtime member of Northgate Baptist Church, where she found strength, purpose, and community throughout her life. She attended the University of South Carolina and remained a loyal Gamecock fan to the end, never hesitating to express her distaste for Clemson and anything orange. Her opinions were as bold as her Estee Lauder Red Red Red lipstick and just as enduring. Whether it was football, politics, or how grits should be properly prepared. Lib had a stance, you were going to hear about it. She also cheered for the hometown Furman Paladins and she never let that dilute her Gamecock pride. Her humor and fiercely spirited views were part of what made her unforgettable. Elizabeth dedicated many years to her career as an executive secretary at First Federal Savings and Loan, where she was respected for her professionalism, sharp mind, and strong work ethic. At home, she was a gifted homemaker and exceptional Southern cook, balancing a successful career with raising her family in the very home her father had built.

She was a passionate sports fan, an avid bridge player, a lover of good Southern food, and a woman of remarkable strength, wit, and warmth. She poured her love into her family and took immense pride in her role as mother to her two sons, James H. Simkins Jr. "Jimbo" (Mary) and Neal F. Simkins, and as grandmother to her four grandchildren: Emily, Tate, Will, and Cate.

Elizabeth is survived by her sons, her grandchildren, and countless friends and extended family whose lives were touched by her generosity, spirit, and enduring love.

A visitation will be held at the Downtown Chapel at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 24th at 12:15 p.m., followed by a service at 1:30 p.m. A graveside service will be held at Woodlawn Memorial Park at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Lib's memory by enjoying a good Southern meal, playing a hand of bridge, or cheering on the Gamecocks or Paladins, but never for Clemson.

Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Liz with the family by clicking on the button labeled "Share A Memory".