Florence D. Simmler

Florence D. (MacDonald) Simmler

Born on September 15, 1939, she was the daughter of the late Archibald and Flora A. (MacIsaac) MacDonald. Raised and educated locally, she was a proud graduate of the Franklin High School Class of 1957. Florence’s life was deeply intertwined with the fabric of Franklin, where she shared 42 years of devoted marriage with her late husband, Henry J. Simmler.

Florence’s early years were defined by the devotion of raising her four sons. She infused her household with a passion for art, sweets and sports. A fervent Boston sports fan, her commitment to youth sports culminated in the 1980s, when she became an inaugural coach and foundational figure in establishing Franklin's first girls' youth softball league.

To many, Florence was best known for the sweetness she brought into the world. A baker of extraordinary talent, her kitchen was a place of endless creativity. From celebratory cakes to comforting cookies, her craftsmanship graced tables throughout Franklin for decades. Later in life, she brought that same nurturing presence to the Franklin Senior Center kitchen. As a dedicated volunteer, she found profound purpose in serving meals, sharing her love of sweets, and staying deeply connected to her neighbors.

Florence leaves a legacy of immense warmth, resilience, and boundless generosity. She is survived by her four devoted sons: James W. Abel, Richard T. Abel, Kirk A. Simmler, and Eric J. Simmler (with partner Shannon Fitzpatrick), and her cherished grandchildren Cherrie, Lea, Jimmy, Savannah, and Naomi. She is also survived by her sister, Ena Thompson of Hopkinton, and joins in rest her siblings Mary Curran, Alexander, Robert, Archie, and George MacDonald, Janice Kehoe, and Jane Tero. Her absence will be deeply felt by her extended family, including many adored nieces, nephews, and great grandchildren.

Service Information: A funeral service celebrating Florence’s life will be held Friday, June 26th, at 11:00 AM at the Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home, 33 Cottage St. Interment will be held privately. 

Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours on Thursday, June 25th, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM.

In tribute to Florence’s spirit of giving, donations in her name may be directed to the Franklin Senior Center,10 Daniel McCahill St.

Guestbook www.franklinfuneral.com