Nancy Lynn Simmons (Atwood), 79, of Brooksville, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on July 11, 2026.
Born to the late Ralph and Thelma Atwood, Nancy lived a life defined by love, compassion, and dedication to both her family and the dogs that brought her so much joy.
She was the devoted mother of Kimberly Norton (Paul Sr.) and Loreen Gibbs (Michael); cherished grandmother of Paul Norton Jr. (Tiffany), Darren Norton, and Anais Pantaleone; and proud great-grandmother of Felicity and Dakota Norton. She is also survived by her beloved sister, Cheryl Hochschild, along with many treasured nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Throughout her life, she built a successful and rewarding career. She discovered her true calling when she purchased The Curry Corner Dog Grooming Shop in Princeton, New Jersey. Through her business, she not only groomed dogs with exceptional skill but also mentored and trained countless students through the National Dog Groomers Association of America. Her success led to the opening of a second location in Princeton Junction and the relocation of her Princeton salon to Lawrenceville NJ.
While her greatest love was always her family, her lifelong passion was dogs. A respected breeder of Great Danes, she made a lasting impact through her work with the American Kennel Club, Great Dane rescue organizations, and as a proud member of the Hernando County Kennel Club. In her retirement, she found immense joy supporting her daughter Kimberly and son-in-law Paul in showing Whippets. Over the years, her knowledge, dedication, and discerning eye helped produce an impressive lineage of Best in Show champions. She especially loved mentoring young exhibitors, teaching Junior Handlers the art, sportsmanship, and responsibility of showing dogs. Her many accomplishments in the show ring reflected not only her expertise but also the love and care she devoted to every dog she raised, groomed, and trained.
Nancy will be remembered for her generous heart, kind spirit, and willingness to help anyone in need. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering compassion touched countless lives. Her legacy of love, kindness, passion, and excellence will continue to live on through her family, her many students, the dog community she helped shape, and all those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.
In accordance with her wishes, Nancy will be cremated, and no formal services will be held. Instead, her family encourages everyone who knew and loved her to celebrate her life in their own special way, remembering the joy, kindness, and passion she shared with others, and to pay that kindness forward.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Great Dane Rescue or Take The Lead in Nancy’s honor, continuing her lifelong commitment to the health, welfare, and well-being of dogs and the people who love them.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege and honor of knowing her.
Nan Bodine
July 13, 2026, 9:58 pm
Nancy, the time I knew you was far to short. I will always remember and cherish our conversations together about the sport we both loved. I can visualize now and image of you parading one of your Danes around that great dog show in the sky, smiling all the time.You missed be missed. Love ❤️ always, Nan
Lori McMillion
July 13, 2026, 10:20 pm
There is no one in this world like your mother. She was a special person, and she will always be with you. Nothing can take away the pain you’re experiencing. I just want you to know that I care and share in your sadness.
June & Ray Kauffman
July 13, 2026, 10:31 pm
Nancy will definitely be missed, she had an infectious personality and a great smile. She loved her family and loved to talk about her love for her dogs. She will be the angel with a beautiful smile from ear to ear, rest in peace sweet friend.
Sondra Marcus
July 13, 2026, 11:42 pm
Kim,
So sorry to learn of your Mother’s passing.
May your memories bring you comfort and peace.
Sondra Marcus
Lorraine Simmons
July 14, 2026, 12:04 am
My heart goes out to Nancy’s family in your time of loss.
Nancy and I were good friends when we both lived in NJ. We shared the love of Great Danes. Nancy was funny and always there for her friends. She will be missed.
Michelle Neuzil
July 14, 2026, 12:31 am
My deepest condolences to the family and friends and to all those who she mentored and helped. My heart breaks for her daughters. I have known Loreen for many years now and it is clear who she gets her compassion for animals from.
Loreen – I sure wish I lived closer to give you a big hug. Know I am always here for you!
Ray J Cooper
July 14, 2026, 12:50 am
My Deepest Condolences to Kim, Paul, and the entire family. Always enjoyed talking to her over the years.
Respectfully,
Ray J Cooper (Tampa)
Katie Edwards
July 14, 2026, 1:51 am
Nancy and I talked Danes over quite a few years. We were able to debate and analyze as we agreed on a number of things. I was happy to see she was able to make it to the last National. I know she was really tickled to see people she hadn’t seen in years. We will miss your smile Nancy and all the people you helped with your knowledge will remember the time you spent with them. May you rest in peace knowing you left a nice family and a legacy of kindness here on earth.
Penny Ward
July 14, 2026, 3:36 am
Loreen and Family,
We offer our deepest condolences and sympathy on the loss of your precious Mama.
I will keep you all lifted up in love and light. Please remember even though she is no longer physically here with you she will forever walk with you in your heart. Hugs to you all
Brenda Oloughlin
July 14, 2026, 12:35 pm
She was so kind. I had the pleasure being her client for so many years. I think she loved my dogs as much as I loved them and every time one passed I think she felt as much pain as I did. But they always got groomed right before and it was like she was getting them ready for heaven.Then, we would celebrate getting another pup together. I loved always chatting with her and catching up about things and she became a friend. I will always have fond memories of her, and our chats. May she rest always in peace. And may you all be comforted, knowing that she made a difference in peoples lives and created happiness and connections through her skills and love of animals.
Judy London
July 14, 2026, 12:55 pm
May her soul be bound in the bond of eternal life