Johnnie Simmons

Mr. Johnnie C. Simmons, Sr., joined his heavenly Father on Thursday, July 23, 2009. Johnnie was born May 7, 1920 in Sparta, Georgia to Larkin Simmons and Nora Clay. His parents and twin brother, Buddy “Jimmy” Simmons all preceded him in death. Johnnie accepted Christ at an early age but found his church home at Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church where he was a member for 59 years. He was a veteran of WWII and received the Army of Occupation Medal as well as the WWII Victory Medal before he was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army as a Corporal in 1947. After serving in the army, Johnnie eventually moved to Toledo and was employed with Doehler Jarvis but retired in 1994 from Daimler Chrysler where he worked as a heavy machine operator for 30 years. He was also a Mason of Composite Lodge No. 108. Johnnie was a natural born entrepreneur and he owned numerous businesses over the years including a trucking company, a wig shop, a clothing store, an ice cream truck and a car wash. He was also the manager for a local singing group known as Colorscope. Johnnie was a very hard worker but he also enjoyed entertaining and traveling. Johnnie touched many lives and always extended a helping hand and money to anyone in need. Speaking of money, he was a free-hearted person; however if he loaned you money you’d better be prepared to pay him back with interest. He was serious about his money. For years he donated money to various local and national organizations all in an effort to help. Johnnie will be greatly missed but we know that he is one of God’s #1 Angels and that he is watching over us from inside heaven’s gates. He leaves to cherish and celebrate his life: loving daughter, Tina Campbell of Toledo, sons, John Jr. (Beatrice) Simmons, John D. Simmons both of Toledo, James “Ricky” Simmons of OK, Dr. Dwayne (D’Nisa) Simmons of CA, and faithful caregiver Sean (DeLise) Simmons of Toledo. He had many grandchildren whom he loved including Monica, Katrina, LaShonna, Dillon and Danae, however Shawnise and ShaLise were two very special granddaughters who brought him joy and assisted him on a daily basis. He is also survived by great grandchildren, many loving relatives and special friends. Visitation will be on Tuesday, July 28, 2009 from 5 – 7 p.m. at Dale-Riggs Funeral Home, 572 Nebraska Ave. Wake Services will be on Wednesday beginning at 11:00 a.m. with Masonic Services at 11:30 a.m. and the funeral to follow at 12 Noon at Mt. Pilgrim Church, 1401 Hoag St., Rev. Raymond G. Bishop, Jr., officiating. Intermittent will be at Ottawa Hills Memorial Park.