Edward John Simmons

Edward John Simmons, Sr. of Ozark, Missouri was taken Home by his Heavenly Father to be reunited with his loving wife on Thursday, April 13, 2017. He was born on December 30, 1930 in Staten Island, New York. He served in the United States Navy aboard the U.S.S. Oriskany, stationed in Brooklyn, New York from 1948-1952. On June 11, 1955 he married the love of his life, Maxine Combs. Together they shared 40 years of marriage and built a foundation for their family inspired by unconditional love. Ed & Maxine moved their family to Ozark in 1972 where they made many lifelong friends in the community. In his earlier days he was an avid hunter and fisherman, and as the years passed he grew to treasure his relaxing afternoons napping in his chair wearing his favorite Italian boxers with his handsome cat, Jasper, on his lap. Ed was proceeded in death by his father & mother, George & Catherine Berich, his precious wife "Eenie" Maxine Simmons, and four of their dearly loved children. He is survived by his children, Larry Simmons, Sonia & James Cooper, and Dawn & Sean Mixon, who all reside in Ozark; his beloved grandchildren Brandy Sexton & husband Jeremy, George Simmons & wife Monica, Jessica Simmons, Mike Cooper & wife Randa, Lacy Phillips & husband Donald, Ashley, Allee, Megan, & Matthew Mixon, Brianna Alpers & husband Donald, Amber Sims, and Dustin Preston; 24 great-grandchildren; special extended family Marti & Randy Mullen, Rhonda & Darrell Preston, his cherished family and friends in Kentucky, Michigan, New Jersey, & New York; and his faithful best friend, Jasper the cat. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 19th from 6:00-8:00pm, and the celebration of Ed's life well lived will be held on Friday, April 21st at 2:00pm, both at Adam's Funeral Home in Ozark. Interment with full Military Honors will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery, Walnut Grove, Missouri. Ed's family would like to send special thanks to the Branson V.A. Clinic and Home-Based Program, Cox South Step-Down Unit, and Integrity Home Care & Hospice for their devoted care and heartfelt compassion. In keeping with Ed's generous spirit, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of the giver's choice.