Ophelia Averitt was born in Demopolis, Alabama, moved to Mobile, when she was very young, for fear of retaliation from whites for her mother helping black farmers. The family later relocated to Akron, leaving behind 180 acres of land and her father's restaurant.

Ms. Averitt's mother was a teacher at a time when blacks could not teach in Akron schools. Her father and mother had to go to work in local factories.

Ophelia attended Bryant Elementary and West High Schools before moving to New Jersey. She attended Patterson School of Nursing and took classes at New York City College. There, she won a beauty contest which enabled her to pursue a career in cosmetology. Ophelia returned to Akron to attend Sayers School of Cosmetology and worked as a nurse evenings. She opened her first salon in 1968 and currently owns Simone’s Beauty Salon on Copley Rd.

Ms. Averitt was married to the late John "Andy" Averitt and together raised three children.

Ophelia has been involved with the NAACP since she was three and has been an active member for more than 60 years. After serving in many capacities she was appointed president in 1993. As president, she established college scholarships and has provided funds for the mentoring of school age children, youth orchestra, and oversaw the establishment of chapters on six college campuses including the University of Akron and Kent State University. She was also instrumental in helping to start the first afro-centric school in Akron (Stewart Primary School).

Ms. Averitt is considered one of Akron’s fashion icons. She is best known for her extensive and flamboyant collection of hats. She even caught the attention of former President Bill Clinton with the multi-colored gloves she wore to a town hall meeting in Akron.