Vernon H. Simms, age 80, passed away August 22, 2017 in Jacksonville, Florida. Vernon was born on August 16, 1937 in Jacksonville, Florida to Isaac and Olivia Simms. He was a lifetime member of Riverside Primitive Baptist Church and was an ordained minister. Vernon retired after 36 years of service as a captain with Jacksonville Fire and Rescue. He enjoyed fishing and wood crafting. Vernon was a loving and faithful husband, father, and grandfather. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.
Vernon is preceded in death by his granddaughter Tiffany Rice. He is survived by his loving and faithful wife of 62 years Florence Simms; three daughters Verna Dewhurst, Christy Simms, and Juanita L. Davis; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 28, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at Riverside Primitive Baptist Church, 702 Dellwood Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32204. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Riverside Memorial Park.
HARDAGE-GIDDENS RIVERSIDE MEMORIAL PARK AND FUNERAL HOME, 7242 Normandy Boulevard, is serving the family.
