He was a retired Air Force Chaplin after serving 27 years for his God and his country. 

Mr. Simmons is preceded in death by his parents Frank Leslie and Margaret Craft Simmons; one brother, Dan Simmons; and one grandson, Jonathan Simmons.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Frances Cuddy Simmons; one son, Charles “Bo” Simmons II and wife Jo-Ann of Columbus, GA; three daughters, Ellen Sams and husband Jeffrey of Sebeka, MN; Penney Ramsey and husband Allen and Canille Alexander and husband Toby both of Shelby; 3 brothers, Donald, Greg, and Jerry Simmons; thirteen grandchildren and one adopted granddaughter.

Clay-Barnette Funeral Home of Shelby is serving the family.