William Simmons

William Ray “Willie” Simmons was born November 15, 1955 to William “Bill” Simmons and Adlean Headen Simmons in Austin, Texas. He received his formal education in the Austin Independent Schools, and culminated at the Austin High School. Willie began his relationship with Christ at an early age at First Baptist Church. Following high school William entered into the US Army in October 10, 1973 and was honorably discharged on September 29, 1975. Willie met the love of his life, Barbara Jones and they were married for more than 41 years. Willie was a man that was not a stranger to work; he was employed at the City of Austin, St. David’s Hospital, and Pentagon Technologies where he performed floor tech jobs. Willie’s life was filled with listening to music, washing his car, cooking, barbecuing and family gatherings—where he was the life of the party, playing dominoes, collecting baseball caps, spending time with his grandson Noah, and keeping the family tradition of frying fish every Friday. Willie was an avid sports fan. He enjoyed watching Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spur and Pittsburgh Pirates. Willie was preceded in death by his son, William Simmons, Jr.; parents, William “Bill” Simmons and Adlean Headen Simmons Swan; sister, Annie Gray; two brothers, Charles and Lester Simmons. Willie leaves to cherish his memories: wife, Barbara Jones Simmons; stepsons, Joseph Manor and Anthony Jones (Shannon); daughters, Audrey Allen (Mandriel) and Andrea Shaw (Darryl), and son Clayton Jones (Alex); sisters, Rosie Simmons (Ron), Dorothy Bailey and Beverly Simmons, brothers John Simmons (Linda Kay), and James Simmons (Pat); aunt, Mary Corzine, uncle, Aubrey Headen, 11 grandchildren, 1 great grandson and a host nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. The Family Celebration of his Life Service (can be viewed on livestream https://livestream.com/accounts/7325565/williesimmons) will be 10AM on Friday, August 14th at Greater Love Missionary Baptist Church. Interment at Assumption Cemetery. Flowers can be delivered to ALCBF 1309 E 12th Street Austin. The family has selected Dr. Barry J.W. “The Shepherd” Franklin, CFSP at A Life Celebration By Franklin to fulfill his final earthly celebration with great excellence.

Tributes

William Simmons

November 15, 1955 - July 27, 2020