Joe Simmons

Joe Simmons, 86, passed away on 04/12/2023 at his home in Mansfield, TX. He was born on 10/05/1936 in Avery, TX to Elzie Simmons and Rosa Day.

Joe grew up in Texarkana, TX. After leaving school Joe worked for Guy’s Orange Stand as a cook in Texarkana, Texas before moving to Arlington, Texas and opening up a chain of restaurants known as the Bull Pen. After selling the restaurants he became a private contractor, painting homes and doing remodeling work.

Joe married his first wife Ruby Jean Traylor in 1954. They were married for 6 years and divorced in 1960. They had three children, Tersa, Shelia, and Shane. He then married Melba Jo Baker in 1963 in Texarkana, Texas.  They were married until her passing on 09/02/2017. They had four children, Sherrin, Joe Edward, Tina, and Neil.

Joe was preceded in death by his father, Elzie Simmons; mother, Rosa Simmons; son, Shane Simmons; daughter, Tersa Herbert; sister, Dollie Simmons.

Joe is survived by his daughters, Shelia (Brian) Simmons-King of Denton, Texas, Sherrin Alexander of Alverado, Texas and Tina (Fred) Jandrucko of Burleson, Texas; sons, Joe Edward (Bobbie) Simmons of Mansfield, Texas and Neil Simmons of Arlington, Texas; 11 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren; brother, Johnny Simmons of Texarkana, Texas and Fred Simmons of New York; sister, Kate.

A Graveside service will be held at Emerald Hills Memorial Park 500 Kennedale Sublett Rd. Kennedale, TX 76060 at 2 PM Saturday, April 15, 2023.