Obituary of Florence M. Simone

Simone, Florence Mary Bridget, age 88, August 11, 2007. Precious wife of Nicholas (for over 58 1/2 years). Dearest mother of Andrea Jean and Daniel C.(Nancy) Dear sister of Donald C. (of Toronto Canada). Also survived by grandchildren, Joshua, Carl and Jon; 3 great grandchildren; cousins, Barbara O'Brien, Dorothy Boudreau, and Truman Strong; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughter Saundra; sister Kathleen; and brothers Roy and Johnny MacDonald. Living in Royal Oak for over 50 years Florence leaves many friends and neighbors whose lives she improved with her smile, many talents, and caring ways. A talented poet, writer, dancer, and pianist, family and music were her greatest loves. Born May 4, 1919 to Jeanette MacDonald and John A. MacDonald (renowned Canadian fiddler of Scottish music “Little Jack the Fiddler”). Accompanying him on the piano were some of her proudest moments. She had a distinctive style characterized by a left hand that was inimitable. 88 were not enough keys, she often tried to pull chords below the range of the piano. She was influenced by the Celtic and Classical music of her father, plus Boogie-Woogie, Swing, Ragtime, and Gospel. In keeping with Florence’s wishes a family memorial and reflection will be held in her honor at a later date. No donations or flowers are requested. The family hopes everyone will follow Florence’s example of brightening the corner were you are, and saying a little prayer every time you see someone struggling, unhappy, in pain or danger.