Ray James Simmons

He was born Oct. 5, 1920 in Centerville, Iowa, the son of the late George J. and Carrie (Benson) Simmons. He married Lola Staight on March 20, 1944 in Dursley, England and she survives.

Mr. Simmons worked as a salesman for Springfield Electric for 30 years. He was a member of the Springfield Seventh Day Adventist Church. He served as an elder with the church for many years and was active with many other church programs. He also loved fishing, gardening, woodworking, and traveling. Mr. Simmons served in the U.S. Army during the WWII era.

Besides his wife, Lola, he is survived by a son, David J. “Goose” Simmons of Atlanta, GA, a daughter, Deborah (husband Gary) Ambuehl of Springfield, 7 grandchildren, Amanda, Jessie, Nate, Janine, Cheyenne, Ethan, and Jayden, 3 great-grandchildren, Tyler, Daltan, and Melonie. He is also survived by 3 sisters, Virginia Simmons of Lubbock, TX, Alfreda Simmons of Darbyville, IA, and Madge Peterson of Darbyville, IA, and 3 brothers, Alfred Simmons of Arkansas, Paul Simmons of Oklahoma City, OK, and Royal Simmons of Centerville, IA.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by 2 brothers, George and Chester Simmons, and 3 sisters Ruth Vandenbrink, Edith Johnson, and Esther Ray.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bisch and Son Funeral Home, 505 E. Allen, Springfield, IL where visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 20, 2010 from 5 to 7 pm. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at 12:30 pm at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery, Springfield.

Memorials may be made to the Springfield Adventist Christian School.

Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.