Margarette Joyce Simmons Persall was born April 9, 1942, and graduated to Heaven Jan. 26, 2026, at the age of 83.
Margarette was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was born in Cullman Alabama to humble beginnings. The challenges of those early years instilled in her a strong work ethic and determination to make the most of every opportunity.
On Dec. 17, 1960, she married the love of her life, Gene Persall. This began a remarkable 65-year partnership built on mutual respect, shared labor and unwavering commitment. Together they enjoyed working side by side through every season of life. For 24 years, they worked together at a local manufacturing business. Later, they used their experience and entrepreneurial spirit to build their own apparel manufacturing business, where they poured 15 more years of hard work into something of their own before “retiring” to a life of cattle farming.
To her family she was the heart of the home. She was a dedicated wife who stood by Gene through every season of life, a mother who instilled values of confidence, responsibility and a never give up attitude and a loving grandmother and great-grandmother whose strength will continue in the generations that follow.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 65 years, Gene Persall; daughter Sheri (Michael) Flanigan, son Gene (Kellie) Persall Jr., grandchildren Julie Lockette, Javier (Mackenzie) Torres; great-grandchildren Maddie and Callie Rose; her sister Dorothy Baker, brother Roger Simmons and a host of family and friends.
Her life was a testament to the power of love, family and hard work. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. A memorial service will be held at Cullman Funeral Home on Saturday, Feb. 7, at 11 a.m. The family will receive friends from 10-11 prior to the service.
Cullman Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.
