Graveside services for Mary Jane Simon, age 90, of Portales, will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the Portales Cemetery.
Mary Jane was born on November 20, 1934, in Juno, Texas, to Herman and Nellie Bendele, as the third generation on the Bendele Ranch. She passed away peacefully on December 16, 2024, in Las Vegas, New Mexico. In November of 1957, she married the love of her life, William (Bill) Simon, whom she met in California. In 1969, they moved to Hereford, Texas, and later settled in Portales in 1981, where they built a loving home and life together until his passing June of 1987.
Growing up on the family ranch in Juno, Mary Jane was the youngest of 11 children. An avid horsewoman, she and her cousin Ruth Carruthers (deceased) eventually started their own ranching operation, raising sheep, goats, and cattle in the Southwest Texas area. Affectionately known as “Aunt Rosie” by her many nieces and nephews, Mary Jane was a young entrepreneur, famously selling Rosebud Salve in her preteens.
Jane, as her friends called her, was a talented musician who played guitar and sang, even performing with Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys. She had a deep appreciation for music, poetry, and dancing, particularly with her husband, and loved singing old country and western songs. Jane also wrote poetry and reflected deeply on life, once saying, “Where I live is a reflection of who I am and how I want to live. It is my home and an extension of my soul. It’s where my spirit rests and plays. I share it with the people I love, and that is what makes all the difference to me.”
Known for her wit and wisdom, Mary Jane had a few favorite sayings that her family and friends will never forget. She often reminded loved ones, “You have a brain… use it,” and her timeless declaration, “Money talks and bullshit walks,” remained with her to the very end.
Mary Jane’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her daughter, Marylee Simon-Rodgers of Amarillo, TX; her sons, Bill Simon and his wife Wynn of Junction, TX, and Rod Simon and his wife Debra of San Francisco, CA; and her three cherished grandchildren: Taryn Rodgers Usher and her husband Josh, along with their children, Tenlee Jane and Stetson Usher, of Waco, TX; Ashliegh Simon of San Angelo, TX; and Aaron Simon and his wife Isabel of Muleshoe, TX. She is also survived by her brother, Loyd Bendele of Juno, TX, and numerous extended family members and friends.
Mary Jane will be remembered for her sharp one-liners, her resilience, and her unwavering love and dedication to her family. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, laughter, and heartfelt memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
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