James Simmons was born September 3, 1923, in Whitesville, North Carolina to the union of Abraham and Florence Simmons.  He departed this life after a short illness on Thursday, January 20, 2022.

James proudly served in The United States Army receiving the "PURPLE HEART METAL".  He enjoyed spending countless hours sharing stories of his time in World War ll.  James was a faithful member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church for over 60 years serving as a board trustee.  James was employed at The Timken Company in Canton, Ohio for over 40 years.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Abraham and Florence Simmons; Daughter, Peggy Parker; Brothesr, Harry lee Simmons, Moses Simmons; Sister, Rosa Lee Simmons, Diane Johnson; Brothers-in-law, John lee Prather, Nat Prather, Sam Prather; Sisters-in-law, Bernice Barnett, Mary Maze.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted and loving wife of 50 years, Betty Sue Simmons; Sons, Marshall Simmons of Canton, OH, Willie Jean Simmons of Cincinnati, OH, Virgil (Kimberly) Simmons of Uniontown, OH; Brother, Frank "Busted' Simmons of NC; Sisters-in-law, Elise (Charles) Beverly, Virginia Hiedelberg of Canton, OH; Grandchildren, Tanica Hilton, Zarrya Simmons, Eva Marshall of Uniontown, OH, Simmons Marchell Hail, Brentin Adams of Cleveland, OH, Jacqueline (Jeffery) Scott, Denise Blanks, Cynthia Love, Diana Love, Jerry McBride, LaTonya (Kyong) So of N.C.; Special Niece, Monche Simmons and a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.  This classy gentleman will be missed and loved forever.