Jesse Junior Simmons

Jesse Jr. Simmons, age 89, Kansas City, KS, passed away September 25, 2012 in his home as a result of multiple medical complications. A visitation and celebration of life will be held at Chapel Hill-Butler Funeral Home, 701 N. 94th Street, Kansas City, KS on Friday, September 28th; visitation 1:00-2:00 and celebration of life 2:00-3:00.

Jesse was born to Edna Bilbrey Simmons and Jesse Avis Simmons on January 26, 1923 in Kansas City, KS where he lived most of his life. He honorably served in the U.S. Navy during both World War II and the Korean War. He married Betty E. Thompson on January 1, 1947 and they were divorced in 1960. Jesse was a long-time member of the American Legion, Post 199. After 33 years working at Colgate Palmolive, he retired in 1980. He enjoyed many years of traveling with his companion of forty years, Sarah Scheidt, who preceded him in death, May 12, 2012.

Jesse was also preceded in death by his brothers, Wendell Simmons and Wayne Simmons and his grandson, Jeremy Blake Estes. Survivors include two daughters, Judi Simmons Estes and Kathy Simmons Thomas and her husband, David of Liberty, Missouri; a son, Jay Simmons and his wife, Belinda of Kansas City, KS; and grandchildren Brian David Thomas of Kansas City, Missouri, Amy Lynn Thomas Warder and her husband Daniel of Kansas City, Missouri, First Class Petty Officer Steven Jeremy Simmons and his wife Hailey of Bremerton, Washington, Airman First Class Kara Leanne Simmons of Hampton, VA; and a great grandson, Acen Jay Simmons of Bremerton of Washington. In addition, he is survived by one sister, Betty Powell of Kansas City, KS; and three brothers, Melvin (Mutt) Simmons and his wife Jean of Kansas City, KS, Richard Simmons and his wife Lavine of Bonner Springs, KS, and Jerry Simmons and his wife Mary of Shawnee, KS.

"Jesse endured a long nine month journey of unexpected medical complications. He left this life at peace with his children by his side. His perseverance and willingness to adapt to unexpected challenges were an inspiration. He will be dearly missed."

Fond Memories and condolences may be left at www.chapelhill-butler.com, as service arrangements are under the direction of Chapel Hill-Butler Funeral Home, 701 North 94th Street in Kansas City, Kansas (913) 334-3366.