Pinkie Simmons Celebrates 100th Birthday

Former midwife and community leader reflects on a life of service and family

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:21pm

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph in soft pools of warm color and light, depicting an elderly woman sitting in a rocking chair on a porch, surrounded by the blurred shapes of children playing, conceptually representing Pinkie Simmons' long life of caring for children and community.A century of memories and a lifetime of service come together as Pinkie Simmons celebrates her 100th birthday.Cairo Today

Pinkie Norwood Simmons, a former midwife from Cairo, Georgia, is turning 100 years old on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Simmons delivered over 1,000 babies during her career, many during the segregation era, and also opened one of the first daycare centers in the area. In addition to her work, Simmons raised 12 children of her own and welcomed many foster children into her home. As she celebrates her milestone birthday, Simmons looks back on a life dedicated to helping others and raising a family.

Why it matters

Pinkie Simmons' story highlights the important role midwives played, especially for underserved communities, during a time of racial segregation. Her commitment to caring for children through her work as a midwife and daycare owner also reflects the value she placed on family and community. As Simmons celebrates 100 years, her life serves as an inspiring example of service, resilience, and the power of supporting others.

The details

Simmons was born in Grady County and worked as a midwife until the early 1980s. She was recognized in 2024 for delivering over 1,000 babies during her career. In addition to her work as a midwife, Simmons opened one of the first daycare centers in the area. When not working, Simmons raised her 12 biological children, as well as many foster children who would often return to her home after being placed elsewhere.

  • Pinkie Simmons was born in Grady County.
  • Simmons worked as a midwife until the early 1980s.
  • In 2024, Simmons was recognized for delivering over 1,000 babies during her career.
  • Simmons opened one of the first daycare centers in the area.
  • Simmons will celebrate her 100th birthday on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

The players

Pinkie Norwood Simmons

A former midwife from Cairo, Georgia who delivered over 1,000 babies during her career and opened one of the first daycare centers in the area. She is celebrating her 100th birthday on April 18, 2026.

Cheryl Simmons

Pinkie Simmons' daughter.

Geraldine Faulk Thomas

Pinkie Simmons' eldest daughter.

Daniel Simmons

Pinkie Simmons' son.

Rev. Perry Simmons Sr.

Pinkie Simmons' late husband, who was often on the front lines of political protests and marches.

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What they’re saying

“We always had some little ones we welcomed in.”

— Cheryl Simmons, Pinkie Simmons' daughter

“She made sure we all were at school every day. You couldn't stay out unless you were really sick, and if you were, she sent you to the doctor.”

— Geraldine Faulk Thomas, Pinkie Simmons' eldest daughter

“Every need we had was always met, but they were always helping someone else, too.”

— Daniel Simmons, Pinkie Simmons' son

“Treat people the way you would want to be treated and you will have a good life.”

— Pinkie Norwood Simmons

“The minute I could vote, I did. The people that were working there were very nice.”

— Pinkie Norwood Simmons

What’s next

Pinkie Simmons' 100th birthday celebration will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2026 in Cairo, Georgia. The event is expected to draw a large crowd of family, friends, and community members to honor Simmons' lifetime of service and accomplishments.

The takeaway

Pinkie Simmons' remarkable 100-year life story is a testament to the power of compassion, community, and a steadfast commitment to helping others. Her legacy as a pioneering midwife, daycare owner, and devoted mother and grandmother serves as an inspiration to all who seek to make a positive difference in the lives of those around them.