Simone Lutgert Gomez exemplifies resilience and community service. Simone was determined and generous from her childhood in Pensacola, Florida, to her significant roles in Naples.
Early Life and Education
Simone Chassin was born in Pensacola, Florida. Her upbringing emphasized academic excellence and community values. She graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Education from Memphis State University in 1973. For 27 years, Simone lived in Memphis, where she started her career in sales and marketing. Her move to Naples in 1996 marked the start of her philanthropic journey.
Personal Life: Love and Loss
Simone married Barry Gomez, and they had a daughter, Lana Gomez, born in April 1983. Barry’s tragic passing in 2001 left Simone to single-handedly raise Lana, focusing on nurturing her daughter’s creative talents. In 2003, Simone married Scott Lutgert, a prominent Naples businessman, joining the influential Lutgert family, well-known for their significant economic contributions in real estate and insurance.
Philanthropic Endeavors
Naples Children & Education Foundation
Simone has played a key role in the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF), serving as Trustee and Immediate Past Chair. Under her leadership, NCEF has raised millions through the Naples Winter Wine Festival, supporting educational programs for underprivileged youth.
Golisano Children’s Museum & Shelter Work
Simone led the capital campaign for the Golisano Children’s Museum, successfully raising over $26 million. She also co-founded the Women of Means outreach program, contributing to the Shelter for Abused Women & Children.
Awards and Recognition
Simone’s philanthropic efforts have earned her accolades such as the 2008 Outstanding Philanthropist award and the 2013 Ken Venturi Award. Her southern charm and gratitude have been recognized in media honors like Women of the Year.
Family Contributions: Arts and Entertainment
Lana Gomez: Artist
Lana Gomez inherited her mother’s creative spirit. Born on April 23, 1983, Lana’s artistic talents were nurtured by her parents. She pursued formal art education, earning her BA in Studio Art in 2006. Her abstract work, including collaborations with designer Kelly Wearstler, has been featured in prestigious publications such as Vogue and InStyle.
Sebastian Maniscalco: Comedian
Lana married comedian Sebastian Maniscalco in August 2013. Known for his roles in Green Book and The Irishman, Sebastian is a celebrated figure in entertainment, further enriching Simone’s family circle.
Grandchildren: Serafina and Caruso
Lana and Sebastian have two children, Serafina Simone and Caruso Jack. Simone is a devoted grandmother, actively participating in family activities and strengthening intergenerational bonds.
Siblings: Heather and Rodney
Simone’s nurturing expanded to Lana’s siblings, Heather Dockweiler and Rodney Weiss, who grew up alongside Lana in Naples and Memphis.
A Power Couple: Simone and Scott Lutgert
Simone’s marriage to Scott Lutgert brought her into one of Naples’ most influential families. Scott Lutgert, Chairman of the Lutgert Companies, has made substantial contributions to the local economy. Together, Simone and Scott blend community vision with civic devotion.
Legacy and Impact
Charitable leadership, family nurturing, and community building are Simone Lutgert Gomez’s legacy. Her life shows how family and community dedication can change lives.
FAQ
Who is Simone Lutgert Gomez?
Naples, Florida-based philanthropist and community leader Simone Lutgert Gomez supports education and culture.
What is Simone’s family background?
Simone had Lana Gomez with Barry Gomez, her first husband. She married Scott Lutgert, joining a powerful Naples family.
What are Simone’s notable achievements?
Simone has raised millions for educational initiatives through the Naples Winter Wine Festival and led successful campaigns for local institutions like the Golisano Children’s Museum.
How does Simone contribute to community welfare?
Simone’s community work included co-founding outreach initiatives and serving on women’s shelter and botanical garden boards.
