James Earl Simmons

James Earl Simmons

SHREVEPORT, LA - James Earl Simmons, 71, passed away on April 24, 2009 after a two year battle with colon cancer. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at Aulds Funeral Home, 7849 East Kings Highway, Shreveport.

James was born in Magnolia, Arkansas on May 7, 1937. He spent his childhood there, graduating with the Magnolia High School Class of 1955. He was a proud and responsible citizen, serving with both the Arkansas and Louisiana Army National Guards. For over 46 years of his life, James worked for Gordon, Inc. and its predecessor, K.E. Gordon Manufacturing, Inc. He started out as a machine operator, and then worked his way up to Plant Manager and Vice President of Production. At the time of his retirement, James was an Engineer and was responsible for quality control of all blueprint specifications. After less than three years of retirement, James' relentless work ethic drove him back to the job he loved. He worked at Gordon another 3-1/2 years "post retirement" and continued to work as long as his health permitted.

James enjoyed a very active and full life. He was a lifetime member of the Harley Owners Group and enjoyed riding motorcycles throughout his life. James was also a member of the VFW Post #14 and the National Rifle Association. He enjoyed working outside, especially gardening. He was very proud of the purple hull peas and other crops he grew over the years.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Chester Benjamin Simmons and Gladys Mae Slack Simmons. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 21 years and his best friend, Gatha Constable Evans Simmons of Shreveport; his daughter, Karen Beth Simmons Dorman of Magnolia, AR; his step-children Elizabeth Evans Chase of Beauford, SC, Steven F. Evans and Rebecca Evans Lear Castillo, both of Shreveport. "Grandpa James" also leaves behind ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren who love him deeply and will miss him greatly.

Special thanks to Mark Galloway, Bob Rombough, Joey Nuckols, Rand Oswalt, Rand Faulbaum and Tommy Wynn, along with countless other friends, coworkers and family members, for their never ending kindness.

Please leave your words of encouragement for the family on the on-line memorial at www.auldsfuneral.com Aulds Funeral Home

(318)797-8124