Violet Simmons, 82, of Hopkinsville, Passes Away

Longtime gospel singer and homemaker remembered for her musical talents and family devotion.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 9:09am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Violet Sarah Addison Simmons, an 82-year-old resident of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Skyline Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Violet was a homemaker and longtime member of Antioch Baptist Church, as well as a singer with the gospel group The Harmoneers alongside her sisters.

Why it matters

Violet's passing marks the end of an era for the close-knit Addison family, known throughout the region for their musical talents and community involvement. Her life exemplified the values of faith, family, and service that have defined many long-standing residents of the Hopkinsville area.

The details

Violet was the wife of Russell Simmons and is survived by two sons, Tracy Knight and Bodie Knight, as well as one sister, Mary Allen. She was preceded in death by two other sisters, Lillian Hester Coursey Martin and Coleen Hutchings. Violet spent many years singing gospel music with her sisters in the group The Harmoneers, in addition to her role as a homemaker.

  • Violet Simmons passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
  • A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.

The players

Violet Sarah Addison Simmons

An 82-year-old resident of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, who was a homemaker, longtime member of Antioch Baptist Church, and singer with the gospel group The Harmoneers.

Russell Simmons

The husband of Violet Simmons, who survives her.

Tracy Knight

One of Violet's two sons, residing in Russellville.

Bodie Knight

One of Violet's two sons, residing in Gordonsville.

Mary Allen

Violet's sister, who resides in Beechland.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Violet's passing marks the end of an era for the close-knit Addison family, known throughout the region for their musical talents and community involvement.”

— Mary Allen, Violet's Sister

What’s next

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Elk Lick Cemetery in Lewisburg, with Bro. Richard Allen officiating.

The takeaway

Violet Simmons' life exemplified the values of faith, family, and service that have defined many long-standing residents of the Hopkinsville area. Her musical talents and devotion to her community will be deeply missed.