Tia Simmons, 48, of Prince George’s County, Maryland, was born on November 21, 1976, in Washington, D.C., the beloved daughter of Janet Smalls and Gilbert Jerry Overbey. On Monday, September 15, 2025, Tia was called home to be with the Lord.

Tia was raised by her grandmother, Ruby Overbey, and accepted Christ at an early age.  Tia attended Prince George’s County Public Schools, where she graduated from Northwestern High School. She later earned her bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s College of Maryland and her masters from Grand Canyon University.

Tia began her professional career in banking but soon followed her heart into education. She first taught as a devoted elementary school teacher before discovering her true passion in technology. For more than 15 years, she faithfully served with the Technology Training Team for Prince George’s County Public Schools, where she was admired for her knowledge, dedication, and generosity in helping others grow.

Above all, Tia was a devoted wife to Jason Simmons and mother to her two children, Jason and Rachel. She poured her love and creativity into every moment with them—whether designing matching shirts, hosting crab feasts, planning trips, or taking them on cruises, she made the ordinary extraordinary. She also passed down her love of Disney, especially Mickey Mouse, creating magical memories that reflected her joy and imagination.

Tia also had a heart for service. She volunteered with The Bridge Church, where she actively served, and with Upward Athletics in Laurel, coaching both cheerleading and soccer. She loved to bring people together, entertain, and celebrate life with her many friends. She also enjoyed the arts, with a special fondness for the musical Wicked.

Tia is preceded in death by Ruby Overbey, Grandmother and Phillis Overbey, beloved wife of Gilbert Overbey, whom she affectionately called "Ma".  

Tia’s memory will be cherished by her loving husband, Jason Simmons; her children, Jason and Rachel; her parents, Gilbert Jerry Overbey and Janet Smalls; her brothers John Schools, Anthony Schools, and sister Jeralonza Schools, as well as many aunts, uncles, in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives she touched.

Tia will be remembered for her generous spirit, her passion for family and education, and the joy she brought to everyone around her. Just like her beloved Mickey Mouse and the Disney magic she adored, her light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations towards a college fund for Tia’s two children. You can contribute to the “Simmons Children College Fund” via Venmo @Jason-Simmons-194