Betty Simmons has touched many lives over the course of 39 years at Manchester Academy. The beloved teacher retired this year to spend more time with her grandchildren. Simmons retires after 39 years at Manchester
By JAMIE PATTERSON
Managing Editor

Betty Simmons clearly has a passion for the written word and for Yazoo City.
Perhaps it comes natural because as she shares the stories of her memories growing up in a tight-knit community, it sounds like a book that you wouldn’t want to put down.
Within seconds of talking to her, you are placed in the rows of houses on Jackson Avenue or at a pharmacy storefront in downtown Yazoo.
But every memory usually ends in the halls of Manchester Academy.
“Manchester made my life,” she said.
It will be a hard chapter to close for Simmons as she retires after almost four decades of teaching at Manchester. But the impact she made within its walls will last for generations.
“She will truly be missed at Manchester,” said Lori Cohea. “She taught me when I was in school and taught my oldest son. She always had the best outlook and never got discouraged.”
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