William "Bill" Simmons

William "Bill" Simmons, age 86, of Jackson, Tennessee, entered his heavenly home on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at his residence, surrounded by his loving wife and family. Born on April 16, 1939, in Wickliffe, Kentucky, Bill was a man who made an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Bill was an informal individual that when greeted as Mr. Bill Simmons he would always reply that Mr. Simmons was my dad, I’m just Bill.

Bill's early life was marked by a strong educational background and dedication to athletics. He graduated Ballard Memorial High School in 1957, where he excelled in basketball. This passion for sports continued into his military service, as he proudly served in the United States Air Force, where he had the opportunity to showcase his basketball skills while traveling across Europe. Following his military service, Bill pursued his passion for barbering and completed Barber College, establishing himself as a self-employed barber, a career that spanned many years.

Bill was a long-time member of Aldersgate Methodist Church, where he actively sang in the church choir and participated in the Wisdom Seekers Sunday school class. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, enriching not only his own journey but also the lives of those around him.

His vibrant personality shone through in all his endeavors. He was a man of many words, never lacking for a conversation. Bill shared his love for life with those around him, creating cherished memories. He enjoyed playing church league basketball and softball during his younger years and avidly embraced golf, recording two remarkable holes in one throughout his life. Additionally, he found joy in square dancing for many years, and his fondness for yard work kept him active in the community.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Patty Wells Cain Simmons; his daughters, Jan Knolton and husband Joey, Sue Fry and husband Ricky, Kay Coleman and husband Vance, Teresa Frommel and husband Eddie, son, Allen Cain and wife Alice: his sister, Barbara Spence; his cherished grandchildren: Trey Knolton (Brittany), Ashley Stewart (Ron), Mandy Harris (Sean), Lesley Manns (Lee), Michael Frommel (Annette), Stephen Frommel (A.J.), Craig Frommel, 18 cherished great grandchildren, nephews, niece, and 1 great niece.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William A. and Johnnie Peal Simmons and brother in-law, Huston Spence.

A visitation with family and friends will be held in remembrance of Bill on Monday, August 25, 2025, beginning at 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Aldersgate Methodist Church. Following the visitation, a funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m.at the church with Rev. Chris Cooksey, Dr. Barry Scott and Bro. Bobby Carter officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Gardens with Dr. Drew Brewer officiating.

Pallbearers for the service will be Joey Knolton, Ricky Fry, Vance Coleman, Eddie Frommel, Allen Cain, Trey Knolton, Michael Frommel, Stephen Frommel, and Craig Frommel.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting that memorial contributions be directed to Aldersgate Methodist Church, c/o of the choir ministry, 1050 N. Parkway, Jackson, TN 38305 or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online at www.stjude.org or to RIFA, 133 Airways Blvd., Jackson, TN 38301 or online at www.rifajackson.org.

Bill's legacy of love, laughter, and conversation will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He leaves behind a remarkable family who will carry forward his memory and the many lessons he imparted throughout his life.