James "Jim" Wayne Simmons, 83, courageously fulfilled his Earthly journey on Monday, April 21, 2025. He is now walking streets of Gold in the presence of his Savior, Jesus.
Jim was born in Carlinville, IL, on April 15, 1942, the son of James Edward and Frieda (Surrett) Simmons. He married Sue Moore at Bethalto Presbyterian Church on September 30, 1978.
He was a 1960 graduate of Carlinville High School. He worked at Olin Corporation in East Alton for 35 years as a foreman and general foreman in the shot shell division. Later in life he worked at The Bank of Edwardsville as a courier. Jim had a tremendous work ethic which he passed on to his children and grandchildren. Jim had a love for classic cars, owning several of his own and even restoring some. His love of classic cars is a bond that he and his grandson, Blaine, shared.
In his spare time, Jim loved going to car shows, working in his yard, going on cruises with his wife, Sue, and family, and hunting for morel mushrooms. Jim also loved watching This Old House and Bob Ross paint. He and his son, Tony, shared a love of movies and several cooking shows, especially Steven Raichlen’s Project Smoke and Project Fire.
Jim was very active in his church, Bethalto Church of God, serving in the finance office for 20 years, church board, and was instrumental in paving the church parking lot. He loved his church and church family; serving wherever needed.
He loved his family. His daughter Missy says, "he made the best chicken noodle soup." He was a man of quiet stature, but he loved his family immensely. His family will miss that quiet but very present love. Jim was proud of all his children's accomplishments and enjoyed watching his grandchildren grow their way through life.
Jim is survived by his wife, Sue; his children, David (Muriel) Simmons of Blanco, TX, Dawn (Todd) Moffatt of Loveland, CO, Missy Epps of Wood River, IL, and Tony (Paula) Simmons of Edwardsville, IL; grandchildren, Kyle (Emily) Moffatt of New York, NY, Matt (Sarah) Moffatt of Lakewood, CO, Blaine (Emily) Epps of Bethalto, IL, and Elise Simmons and Savannah Simmons both of Edwardsville, IL; great-grandchildren, Sebastian, Noah, Isabelle, Benjamin, and one great-granddaughter on the way; a brother, Bob (Brenda) Simmons; a niece, Theresa (Kirk) Simmons; and a nephew, Tim Simmons.
Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Richard Simmons.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2025, from 2 to 5 pm, at Bethalto Church of God, and continue Monday, April 28, 2025, from 9 am until time of service at 10 am. Pastor Jacob Skelton will officiate, and Dennis Gromer will assist. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens.
The family would like to express their sincerest thanks to BJC hospice team for their wonderful support and care during the last five months. You are angels on earth.
Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto is assisting the family with final arrangements.
Memorials are suggested to Bethalto Church of God debt retirement fund.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
