Earnest Leonard Simmons

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Mr. Earnest Leonard Simmons, 60, of Osceola, Ark., died Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2011, at NEA Baptist Hospital, Jonesboro, Ark. Mr. Simmons was born Nov. 5, 1951, in West Ridge, Ark., to the late Joseph and Alma Simmons. He was a lifelong area resident, of the Church of God faith, enjoyed fishing, hunting, riding four wheelers, and spending time with his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Deborah Simmons of the home; one son, Gregory Simmons of Williford, Ark.; two daughters, Tammy Smith and husband Sam of Osceola, Ark., and Christian Taylor of Joiner, Ark.; three brothers, Joe Simmons of Hot Springs, Ark., James Simmons of Calico Rock, Ark.; and Carrol Simmons of Hot Springs, Ark.; three sisters, Benda Ridgedil of Calico Rock, Ark., Annie Jo Parnell of Florida and Rosa Lee McCreary of Mississippi; six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and a host of other family and friends.

Mr. Simmons was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Dennis Simmons, and one sister, Pamela Simmons.

Graveside services were held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at Caraway Cemetery. The family received visitors from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, at Faith Funeral Service Chapel, Manila, Ark.