James D. Simmons

James Douglas Simmons, age 71 of Moneta went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 7th, 2014. He was born on October 12, 1942 in Franklin County, VA. He was preceded in death by his parents, Julius and Gracie Simmons. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Simmons; daughter and son-in-law, Beth and Matt Estep (Mt Jackson, VA); step-daughters, Julia Yeargan (Winston Salem, NC) and Sharon Deichmann (Moneta, VA); five grandsons, Branson, Garrett, Evan, Luke Estep and Will Deichmann which were James? pride and joy; siblings and spouses, Bobby Simmons and friend, Carolyn Gibson, Marcella and Ray Delong, Rose Mary and James Renick, Dale and Debbie Simmons. James also was surrounded by many cousins, nieces and nephews, a large church family and dear friends. James was a longtime member and servant for the Lord at Halesford Baptist Church, where he held many different roles throughout the years which included being on the Board of Trustees and Head Usher. He also served on numerous committees and was an extremely active member of the church. James was a lifelong resident of Franklin County and worked for Rubatex in Bedford, VA for 33 years. James? passion was working on the family farm where he lived his entire life. The family will receive friends Friday, October 10, 2014 from 2:00-4:00 pm and 6:00-8:00 pm at Halesford Baptist Church. The funeral services will be held at Halesford Baptist Church on Saturday, October 11, 2014 at 11:00 am with Pastor Melvin Harris and Pastor Clif Williams officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Memorials can be made to Halesford Baptist Church Building Fund or The Gideons International. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service & Cremation Center, Rocky Mount ? Smith Mountain Lake.