James R. Simmons

James R. Simmons passed away on Friday, February 3, 2017 in Baton Rouge, LA at the age of 92. Prior to moving to Baton Rouge, he was a longtime resident of New Orleans and was a member of First Assembly of God Church. He was a devout Christian and God played a very important role in his life. He served in the United States Army during WWII where he earned numerous medals including a Purple Heart. After his military service he went to college and became a chemical research engineer and worked on the Gemini, Apollo, and Space Shuttle Programs. James is survived by his children Darla Jeanne Powell (Dennis), James E. Simmons (Barbara), Roger Lee Simmons (Pamela), Richard C. Simmons (Cecilia); grandchildren Michael Powell, Michelle Powell, Matthew Powell (Ericka), Paul R. Simmons (Rhalie), Abigayle K. Harrington (Henry), Toby Simmons (Claire), Jessie Simmons Sgt. (Mary), Bryan Simmons (Jamie), Richard Simmons PO1 (Morgan PO3), Contessa Miller (Eric), and Hailey Lopez; great grandchildren Aubrey, Wyatt, Tommy, Timmy, Eliza, Camden, Eleanor, Hayden, Rylan, Ella Kate, Brycen, and Tristyn; and one sister Janice Marie Townsend (Paul). He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Clara W. Simmons; and parents James Simion Simmons and Mabel Wilda Barnes Simmons; and four siblings, Faith Simmons, Marianne Wilda Simmons, William Glen Simmons, and Jeanetta Perry Simmons. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral service officiated by Reverend Danny Flanagan on Wednesday, February 8, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. followed by interment in Metairie Cemetery. Visitation will be held prior to the services beginning at 9:00 a.m.