Ardie

Mary Arden “Ardie” Neidlinger Simmons, 78, of Callahan, Florida, passed away at her home on Thursday, March 27, 2025, surrounded by family. She was born in Savannah, Georgia, on September 3, 1946, to the late Cuthbert “Cubby” Neidlinger and Mary Newman. Ardie was the former owner of Wild Birds Unlimited in Savannah, Georgia and was the winner of the Business Owner of the Year award. She loved to dance and live the beach life. Above all, she loved her family deeply. She was a member of the American Legion and an Auxiliary Life Member of VFW Post 10,095.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by two spouses: Gilbert Ballard and Robert Simmons; daughter: Dawn Piper; brother: Joseph Neidlinger; and sister: Ellen Williams.

She is survived by her husband: Ben Carl Youmans; daughter: Wendy Arbogast (Timothy); son: Dale LaRose (Laura); son-in-law: Alan Piper; sisters: Jeannie Guglietti (Sal) and Debra Walton; brother: Craig Neidlinger (Georgette); 21-grandchildren; 13-great-grandchildren; 1-great-great-grandchild; 5-nieces; and 5-nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to Callahan First Baptist Church – 45090 Green Avenue, Callahan, Florida 32011 (www.callahanfbc.org).

The family would like to extend warmest gratitude and thanks to Dr. Reddy and staff at UF Health Jacksonville North.

Condolences may be expressed by signing the guest registry at www.srfhcallahan.com. Shepard-Roberson Funeral Home – Callahan Chapel. 617365 Brandies Avenue, Callahan, Florida is honored to serve the Simmons family.