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James Morgan Simmons, 89, of Griswold Road, Elyria, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Dec. 20, 2024.
Born on Aug. 27, 1935, in Buckhannon, West Virginia, to the late Mason Simmons and Alma (Pickrell) Simmons. Jim lived a life full of hard work, dedication and a deep love for his family and country.
Jim was a graduate of Coalton School in 1955, and soon after began working at a young age in the coal mines and sawmill in Cassity, West Virginia. In 1957, he moved to Ohio where he started a long career at U.S. Steel, working as a millwright until his retirement in 1997.
Throughout his career, Jim was known for his work ethic and his ability to exceed expectations.
An avid outdoorsman, Jim had a profound love for hunting, fishing, boating, and guns, particularly reloading ammunition. His passion for the outdoors was matched only by his love for his country and the time spent with those he cherished.
On July 31, 1965, Jim married the love of his life, Emogene Zirkle Simmons. Together, they built a family that Jim adored. He was the proud father of son, James Ronald "Ronnie" Simmons; and a father figure to Craig Zimmerman and Andrew Zirkle. Jim also leaves behind his grandchildren, Jessica Simmons, Christopher Simmons, Jennie Chenoweth, Alyss Hudson, Josh Zimmerman, Emmalee Lawrence, Hollie Monk, Tiffany Zirkle and Natasha Zirkle; along with seven great-grandchildren, who brought him great joy.
Jim was the third of 11 children. He will be dearly missed by his surviving brothers and sisters, Helen Headly of North Carolina, Elsie Flanagan of Ohio, Ray Simmons of West Virginia, Delmar Simmons of Pennsylvania, and Clinton Simmons of West Virginia.
He was preceded in death by his beloved siblings, Betty Pickering, Edith Simmons, Larry Simmons, Carl Simmons and John Simmons.
In his younger years, Jim enjoyed driving his race car at the speedway, a hobby that reflected his love for adventure and speed. He also loved watching western TV shows, a pastime that provided many memorable moments. Jim loved deer hunting with his family members. Jim was a beloved member of The Midway Baptist Church. Above all, Jim was known for his warm heart, infectious smile, his ability to talk with anyone, and his gift for making people feel like family.
Jim leaves behind a legacy of love for his family, dedication to his work, and a life well-lived. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Visitation will be held at the Randolph Funeral Home Friday, from 5 until 8 p.m.. A funeral service will be conducted at the funeral home Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024, at 11 a.m. Pastors Rick Keesee and Charles Keesee will officiate and interment will follow in Upper Rowan Cemetery in Mabie. The family invites all who knew Jim to join them in honoring his legacy.
The Randolph Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements for James Morgan Simmons.
Send online condolences to the family at www.therandolphfuneralhome.com.