OFFICIAL NOTICE OF EARTHLY TRANSITION: Mr. Willie James Simmons - December 14, 1954, ~ May 3, 2025. Age: 70

Swing low, sweet chariot, coming for to carry me home… I looked over Jordan, and what did I see? A band of angels coming after me, coming for to carry me home…

It is with profound sympathy and solemn reverence that the Harrington Funeral Home, Inc. announces the earthly transition of:

Mr. Willie James Simmons, Jr. affectionately known as "Rock" and "Junebug" was born on December 14, 1954, to the late Willie James Simmons, Sr. and the late Mary Harris in Brooks County, Georgia. He joined Greater Pleasant Temple Missionary Baptist Church in 1973. He was a dedicated husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. Willie was devoted to his family and cherished spending time with everyone. He graduated from Lowndes High School in 1973, where he played drums in the marching band. He was a professional truck driver and skilled
mason. A man of quiet strength and unwavering kindness, Mr. Simmons never met a stranger.

Mr. Willie James Simmons Jr. was preceded in death by his Parents: Willie James Simmons Sr. and Mary Harris; Grandparents: John and Janie Simmons, George and Amy Mack and Sister: Norma Jean Simmons.

Mr. Willie James Simmons, affectionately known as a gentle giant “Rock & Junebug” of Valdosta, Georgia. On Saturday, May 3, 2025, in the peace of his home, Mr. Simmons peacefully entered eternal rest at the age of 70.

A man of quiet strength and unwavering kindness, Mr. Simmons never met a stranger. His was a spirit that embraced everyone — with a warm smile, a helping hand, and a heart full of love. Whatever life placed before him, he met it with resilience, dignity, and determination. A hardworking man in his prime, Mr. Simmons faced his later health challenges with grace and courage.

Above all, he was a man of strong and abiding faith. His trust in God was unshakeable, and his life bore witness to the power of perseverance, compassion, and love.

He has now joined that “band of angels,” carried home by the sweet chariot of glory.

Willie James Simmons, Jr. leaves to cherish his memories, a loving and devoted Wife: Vernell Simmons; Caring Mother: Hattie Simmons; Son: Brandon Simmons; Grandson: Joseph Simmons; devoted Sisters: Oterice Simmons and Teresa Simmons (Rodney); devoted Brother: Obediah Wilson (Katie); Special nephew: Dennis Rhym (Tihesia); Nephews: Antonio Pye and Leon Jefferson Jr., devoted Nieces: Shonda Miller (Ernest) and Sierra Simmons, Nieces: Renee Prude (Jason), Lameika Corby (Scott), Sylvia Burgess and Tonya Pye; devoted and Special Aunt: Mattie Adams; Aunts: Eula Copeland, Evelyn Wilson, Shirley Bradley, Diane Williams and Addie Hosendolph; Sisters In-Law: Hazel McCoggle (Julius) and Betty Ann Shungu (John); devoted Godson: Bernard Copeland and Bonus Children: Ashley, Lynn, Elnora, Tarrance, Tabitha, Teresa, Essie, Velma, John, Shonda, Tiffany and Jabarri. As well as a host of cousins, friends, neighbors and the Class of 1973.

Celebration of Life: The Simmons Family, lovingly invite the extended family members, community and well-wishers to join them as they honor the life and legacy of Mr. Willie J. Simmons.

Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM - from the Greater Pleasant Temple Baptist Church - 309 Cherry Street, Valdosta, GA. Associate Pastor Sharon Shaw, Presiding. Pastor, Rev Bernard L. Robinson Sr., Eulogist

Following the service, interment will take place at Pallbearers Cemetery.

Let us come together in love, remembrance, and gratitude for a life well-lived.

The Harrington Family and Staff extend our deepest condolences to this precious family during this difficult time. May the memories of Mr. Simmons life bring you comfort and peace. It is our privilege to serve this family with dignity, honor, and respect at Harrington Funeral Home, Inc. May God surround you with love and support.