James A. Simmons passed away April 17, 2012 following a long and courageous battle with COPD and emphysema. James was born May 4, 1924 to James and Elizabeth Simmons in Smyrna, MS. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Charles and sister Becky. James will be greatly missed by his wife of 64 years, Shirley Simmons; son, Jim Simmons and wife Gay; daughter, Barbara Hayman and husband Mark; grandchildren, Jamie Simmons and wife Kelly, Terrie Johnson and husband Jon and Doug Hayman and wife Tamara, great grandson, Reid Hayman; sister, Nell Allred of La Habra, Ca. James was a loyal husband, father and grandfather. He served his country in the US Navy and retired from Arco after 33 years of employment and service with them. Visitation will be from 6:00pm until 8:00 pm Thursday, April 19, 2012 at Brookside Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be conducted at 10:00 am Friday, April 20, 2012 at Brookside Funeral Home Family Chapel with interment to follow in Brookside Memorial Park.
