Jerry Donald Simmons' Obituary
Jerry Donald Simmons, 69 years of age, a carpenter of considerable respect and reputation for all of his adult life, gathered his tools, closed his toolbox and departed this earthly realm on Tuesday, October 14, 2008 while surrounded by his loving family. He was born July 23, 1939 in Alco, La., was reared in Kurthwood, La., and began his working career in Baton Rouge in 1957. In 1973 he moved back to Vernon Parish, completed his work with Pat Williams Construction, Inc. and retired March 26, 2004. He will now begin new assignments in his heavenly home under the direct supervision of the Master Builder.
This quiet man with considerable skills and the well-earned respect of his peers was surely met on his journey to his celestial home by members of his own personal Cloud of Witnesses which included his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; his first wife, Carol Parker Simmons; his mother, Dorothy Simmons and dad, Boots Simmons.
Jerry became a resident of Temple, La. twenty years ago when he married his devoted wife, Barbara. The two were faithful church members at Comrade Baptist Church where Jerry was a deacon for seventeen years. He also served as Sunday School Superintendent during this tenure, and was an involved Gideon for several years.
This gentle man is survived by his dedicated and loving wife, Barbara Delrie Simmons. She was also his devoted, unwavering caregiver during the final stages of the illness that finally relieved Jerry of his earthly pain and suffering and transported him to his heavenly home as a whole, healed child of God for whom so many had prayed.
He also leaves two daughters: Susan Bell of Pineville and Lisa Guidry and husband, Roger, of Lake Charles; two sons: David Delrie and wife, Carolyn, and Louis Delrie and wife, Mary Ann, all of Simpson, LA. Survivors also include, a brother, Charles "Chuck" Simmons, and wife, Joan; a sister, Mary Crain and husband, Larry, all of whom reside in Kurthwood. Several grandchildren remain to honor his memory. Included in this family group is Amanda Stafford, Stephanie Stafford, Travis Delrie, Tiffani Delrie, Tyler Delrie, Aaron Delrie, Megan Delrie, Sarah Hall, Trent Watson, Michael Guidry and Alexa Guidry; one great-grandchild, Aiden Stafford; three nieces, three nephews, one great-niece and one great-nephew. Jerry is also survived by the many loving members of the Dwayne and Claudia Mae Parker family and a host of beloved friends.
Pallbearers will be David Delrie, Louis Delrie, Tyler Delrie, Aaron Delrie, Larry Crain, Nolan McCool, Kendall Bolton, and Allen Beard. Honorary pallbearers will be Charles Simmons, George Smith, Royce Parker, Donald "Des" Desidre and Arvil Nichols.
A Christian wake will be held at Comrade Baptist Church, Temple, La. from 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 15, until services at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, October 16, at the church. Homegoing services will be officiated by Bro. Lou Gordon, pastor of Comrade Baptist Church and Bro. Terry Ward. Interment will follow in Welcome Cemetery, Simpson.
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