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James Jerome Simmons
Posted
SUN CITY - James "Jim" Jerome Simmons, of Sun City, Ariz., passed away Saturday, Sept. 17, 2016 at Banner Hospice after a long struggle with leukemia. Jim was born Mar. 20, 1926 in Warren, Ohio to Jerome and Wilma Simmons. He grew up with two brothers, Philip and David. In 1944, Jim joined the U.S. Navy and served for two years during W.W. II. He was proud of his service and having spent time on the U.S.S. California (BB-44). Jim married his first wife Lucille Gosser in 1945 and together they had two daughters. He married his second wife Eleanor (Mitzi) Warrender in 1955. Jim worked for Goodyear Aerospace for 35 years. He enjoyed many hobbies including downhill skiing, sailing, hiking and tennis. One of Jim's most notable quotations was "No, I'm 'NOT' Sean Connery", as he was commonly mistaken for the actor in earlier years. Jim is survived by his daughters, Connie Neel (Harry) and Becky Pinegar (Bill); grandchildren, Ian (Robin) Pinegar, Erin Pinegar, Corie (Darin) Miller; great-grandchildren, Christopher J. Neel, Nolan Pinegar, Aidan Miller and Audrey Miller; and his special partner, Eleanor Ralph. He is preceeded in death by brother David Simmons; wife, Mitzi Simmons; and grandson, Christopher W. Neel. A memorial service was held 11:00 am on Monday, Sept. 26, 2016 at Sunland Mortuary, 15826 Del Webb Blvd., Sun City, AZ 85351. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. To leave condolence messages for the family visit www.sunlandmemorial.com
