Mr. Simmons was a coal miner for Peabody Energy Corporation for many years. After retirement, he worked as a school bus driver in Belleville. Ken was a family man and an avid fisherman. He loved animals, making handmade crafts, and furniture restoration.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Alonzo and Leitha, nee Brown, Simmons; and a brother, Larry Simmons.
Surviving are his wife of 55 years, Carol, nee Bingheim, Simmons, whom he married on October 27, 1962;
two sons, Kenneth M. (Tonya) Simmons, Jr., and Ronald J. (Carol) Simmons;
four grandchildren, Niomi Tai (Ryan) Clifton, Brandon Paul Simmons, Autumn Annette Simmons, and Jamie (James) Willis;
eight great-grandchildren;
two brothers, Carroll (Betty) Simmons, and Lindell (Nora) Simmons;
and a sister, Gerri Simmons.
Memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Funeral: Private family services will be held.