Back to Obituaries James E. Churchman, Jr. Funeral Home | Newark, NJ

Kevin Simmons

Passed 01/19/2026

Obituary For Kevin Simmons

Kevin Scott Simmons was born on December 3, 1962, in Newark, New Jersey to the late Charles David, Jr. and Wila Mae Simmons.
Charles, by then a widower, met and married Helen McDowell, who had three young children from a previous marriage, and they became a blended family. Helen and Charles went on to have one child together. When Charles suddenly passed away only a few years into their marriage, Helen continued to love and raise Kevin along with his four siblings as if he were her own child…because he was. She had a steadfast rule, and it holds true to this day, the only “steps” to be referred to in their family were the ones used to get from one floor to another.
Kevin received his primary education at the Seventh-Day Adventist elementary school, Trinity Temple Academy, in Hillside and graduated from Weequahic High school in Newark. After earning an associate’s degree in accounting from Bergen Community College and a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems from DeVry University, he went on to enjoy a long and fulfilling career in the field of accounting, working primarily in the pharmaceutical and insurance industries.
Kevin was a gentle soul with a gracious heart, and he maintained a positive outlook even when faced with adversity. He enjoyed a good laugh, and you could always count on him to share a few words of encouragement or a random compliment. It was not uncommon for Kevin to assist a neighbor in preparing their resume or brushing up on their computer skills, or for him to encourage a colleague to believe in himself/herself and apply for a promotion opportunity or new job position. He loved helping others in any way he could. Kevin also loved his family…fiercely. Nothing in this world was more important to him.
Kevin entered into eternal life on Monday, January 19, 2026. Kevin was preceded in death by his father, Charles Simmons, Jr.; his mothers, Wila Mae, and Helen Simmons; his sisters, Jo Ann, and Gayle (Tina) Cobb; his brother, Gilbert (Butch) Cobb, Jr.; and his precious niece, Jamillah Cobb.
He leaves behind to treasure his memory his devoted sister, Patricia Simmons Pierre (Berry); his nieces, Zakiyyah Cobb-Roseberry (Bari), Jasmine Cobb, and Camille and Danielle Pierre; his great-niece, Mia Roseberry, and great-nephews, Michael Roseberry, Yasir Williams, Abdul Hutson, and Myles Lucas; his aunts, Theresa and Mary McDowell; his many cousins; and a host of friends.

Kevin will be laid to rest in a private ceremony. Information will be forthcoming for a future Celebration of Life service that will be open to all who wish to attend.


Condolences & Tributes

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Each of our lives were made brighter having known you, sir. I wish nothing but peace and light to the loved ones you've left behind. You always said I made you laugh, but you always made us smile, and I'll always be grateful.

Jennifer

To the family of Kevin Simmons, I worked with Mr. Kevin (that's what I called him) at ConnectiveRx in Pittsburgh. PA for short period of time but what an impact he left by his kindness, smile and sweet personality. Always a listening ear and offer of support such a kind spirit, he will be missed

Tamiya Betha-Williams

Kevin was a sweet and caring soul. I had the privilege to work with Kevin for a time and he was always so kind. My prayers and sympathy to the family... Donna Hanne

Kevin was a very sweet and gentle soul. My sympathy and prayers are with the family, Donna Hanne (co

Kevin was such an amazing man. May his memory be for a blessing.

Scott Cutright

Kevin was a beautiful soul! I worked with Kevin for many years, he is going be truly missed! Fly High Kevin! Love you, Meredith Floor

Joan Keber

Kevin was a light of my days. He was a wonderful friend and will be truly missed.

Joan Keber

I will miss our laughs and stories. My heart is broken 💔. You were such a good person. A treasure. An exceptional cousin with love, keeping the ole girl in line. I will always love you 😍 Rest in peace 🙏🏽. Aunt Dorris( my mom) is with you.

Cuz Raine

My friend Kevin, I will Miss our conversations at work so much. You made me laugh and always lifted me up. May you fly high in the next lifetime, you will truely be missed always. Until we meet again my friend... 🙏🏿❤️

Christina Orwig

My dear friend we shared a many good times together and had some heartfelt conversations regarding Life that was inspiring and uplifting for the both of us , you will be missed but not forgotten

darnellp2015@gmail.com

My deepest condolences to Pat and family. Kevin it was always pleasure being in your company and having you as a nephew. RIP RIH. YOU WILL BE MISSED

Mary E McDowell

To Kev and family, I had the honor of meeting you, Kev 3 years ago at ConnectiveRx and we became immediate friends, you had the kindest of hearts and always petitioned for what was right! You saw my strength and my passion for teaching at this job and made sure you went to bat for me thank you!! Kevin wore his heart on his sleeve and we always made sure to check in with each other! And to his niece who I think is also a Sagittarius he absolutely adored you and cared about you so much I just wanted to make sure that you knew that he would always talk about you and say Gin that's why I like you so much you a Sagittarius too!! I honestly cannot say enough amazing things about him he was a teddy bear they don't make men like Kev anymore and I am honored that I could be his friend we talked at the end of fall for an hour and text each other for new years and I am so glad that I made sure we kept in contact after he went to another team because that conversation is a great memory to have of him this world got a little dimmer with his loss but wherever he is now is much much brighter thank you for sharing such an incredible human with the world I hope he knew what an impact he made on so many people <3

Ginny Riccardi

To the family of Kevin Simmons, I worked with Kevin at ConnectiveRx in Pittsburgh. PA for several years. Me and Kevin sat next to each other at work and the stories we would talk about and laughs we shared I will always remember them, and how he would talk about his family and his sister in NJ. Kevin the battle is over you rest in peace. My condolence to your family.

Denise Williams

Words can't express the sorrow I feel at the loss of Kevin. After 9 years I finally got to speak with him 3 weeks ago. My heart goes out to you Pat n your fam

Bernadette Odom

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

James E. Churchman, Jr. Funeral Home | Newark, NJ

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