Obituary of Melinda Lou Simmons, 77
Melinda Lou Simmons.
– Melinda Lou Simmons, age 77, of Atascadero, passed away on December 29, 2025, in San Luis Obispo due to complications from multiple sclerosis. She was born February 8, 1948, in Alhambra, the youngest of three children born to James and Donna Simmons. Melinda spent her childhood in Downey.
In her early 20s, she moved to Cayucos where she met and married Stuart Sheeler in 1970. They later moved to Atascadero, and together they had two children, Brice and Lindsay. After her marriage to Stu ended, she met Steven Babeshoff in 1990. They remained together until Steve’s passing in 2004.
Melinda began her career at the Atascadero State Hospital in 1977. Her work there was varied, involving aspects of patient care and computer technology. After more than 30 years of service, she retired in 2008.
Melinda was preceded in death by her parents James and Donna, her sister Sharon, and her partner Steve. She is survived by her brother Donald (Jacqueline), her children Brice (Marc) and Lindsay (Beau), her grandchildren Soquel and Kieran, and her nieces and nephews Rick, Kelly, Kim, Chrissy, Doug, and their families.
Those who knew Melinda are invited to join her family for a farewell gathering at the Morro Bay Community Center on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, Melinda’s family invites you to make a donation in her honor to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Donation link: https://donate.nationalmssociety.org/campaigns/In-Honor-of-Melinda-Simmons
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