We have lost another of God's servants, Donald Thomas Simmons, Jr, age 70, who transitioned to his Eternal home on Thursday, September 9, 2021 at Iredell Memorial Hospital, Statesville, North Carolina. Born September 27, 1950 in Rowan County, North Carolina, he was the son of the late Thomas and Frances Hairston Simmons. Donald was a believer and he found joy in spreading the Gospel. He had a big smile and a sparkling spirit that always lifted-up those around him even as he dealt with health and life challenges. We give thanks to The Almighty for his life.

He was educated in the public schools of Rowan County, graduating with the class of 1968 from West Rowan High School, Mt. Ulla, North Carolina. Donald was last employed with Ingersoll Rand, Mocksville, North Carolina. He was an avid ESPN watcher. He enjoyed watching Nascar, his UNC Tarheels basketball team, Chicago Bulls and especially America's favorite football team, "The Dallas Cowboys."

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Ronald Simmons.
As we bid farewell to our beloved, be assured that we will meet again. Donald's memory and legacy will forever remain in our hearts. Survivors are his wife, Willie Mae Simmons; son, Donavan (Lenida) Simmons, Greensboro, North Carolina; three grandchildren, Tahlyric Johnson, Danealia Simmons, and D'Allen Simmons; a brother, Allen (Ann) Simmons, Statesville, North Carolina; two sisters, Phyllis (Phillip) Hogue, and Laura (Velvie) Gray, both of Cleveland, North Carolina; two aunts, Lula Lane and Josephine Patterson; nieces, nephews, other relatives and countless friends.

A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Tuesday at Rockhill Church of Christ in Cleveland NC.

Truly the Lord is saying, "Welcome home, my good and faithful servant."