Vernon B. Simmons

Vernon B. Simmons, 90, of Princeton, WV, passed away on Wednesday, December 18, 2013, at Princeton Community Hospital. Born on August 6, 1923 in Floyd, VA, he was the son of the late James and Edna Simmons. He is predeceased by three brothers, David (D.L.), Harman (Doc), Herbert L. (Buddy); and one sister Freeda Cannaday.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Estelle Knowles Simmons; son Kevin Simmons and wife Rachel of Watkinsville, Georgia; daughter, Camela Williams and husband James of Kenbridge, VA; grandchildren, Luke, Beth, and John Mark Simmons, Michael and Janna Williams; nephew, Barry Simmons of Kingsport, TN; niece, Karen Hammond of Griffin, GA; sisters-in-law, Ruby McCrary of Floyd and Belva (Bea) Simmons of Wise, VA.

Vernon served in the U.S. Army from 1943 – 1946 in Panama. Following this tour, he became a heavy equipment operator for 34 years, primarily serving the coal mining industry. He was a member of UMWA District 17, Local 1160. He was an active member of Cook Memorial Baptist Church of Pineville, WV, for 35 years, later transferring his membership to First Baptist Church of Princeton, WV.

Funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2013 at the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Kevin Simmons and Dr. David Dockery officiating. Interment will follow in the Jacksonville Cemetery with Military Rites by Floyd V.F.W. Post # 7854 and American Legion Post # 127. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. prior to the funeral at the funeral home.