James Richard Simmons, 67, of Caddo, Oklahoma, passed away on November 9, 2025. He was born on August 7, 1958, in Fresno, California, to Margie Colleen (Springer) Simmons and Robert Lee Simmons.
On August 22, 1980, James married the love of his life, Karen Gwynn (Hill) Simmons, in Caddo, Oklahoma. Their bond was deep and enduring, built on shared values, laughter, and a love that carried them through every season of life.
As a young man, James worked abroad on oil rigs off the coasts of Japan and Cote d'Ivoire in West Africa. Later, he returned home to Southeastern Oklahoma, where he built a career as a mechanic, carpenter, truck driver, and construction crew supervisor. Each fall, he led a pecan-picking crew across the region for several decades. He was also a prolific arrowhead hunter, with a collection that few could rival—a testament to his patience, curiosity, and connection to the land.
Karen worked locally as a bank bookkeeper for many years before transitioning into retail, where she served as a supervisor. She found joy in gardening, yardwork, photographing nature, and pranking others - especially on April 1st. Halloween was her favorite holiday, and her love for candy was legendary. Every Thanksgiving, she made the best deviled eggs and pecan pie—family favorites that became cherished traditions.
After retirement, James and Karen spent their days doing the things they loved most—together. Their devotion to one another was unwavering, and from that love, they raised two daughters who are forever grateful for the lives they were given.
James is preceded in death by his parents, Colleen and Bob Simmons; his beloved wife, Karen; and his brothers, David Simmons and John Simmons.
He is survived by his daughters, Amber (Simmons) Tilles and husband Michael, and Audrey Simmons; his sister, Mary (Simmons) Maurer and husband Gary; and his brother, Dan Simmons and wife Terry.
As per his wishes, no formal service will be held. James and Karen were cremated, and their ashes will be lovingly spread together in a place chosen by their daughters. Just as they walked through life side by side, they will rest together in peace. Their journey is complete—free from suffering and strife—and they leave behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew them.
On August 22, 1980, James married the love of his life, Karen Gwynn (Hill) Simmons, in Caddo, Oklahoma. Their bond was deep and enduring, built on shared values, laughter, and a love that carried them through every season of life.
As a young man, James worked abroad on oil rigs off the coasts of Japan and Cote d'Ivoire in West Africa. Later, he returned home to Southeastern Oklahoma, where he built a career as a mechanic, carpenter, truck driver, and construction crew supervisor. Each fall, he led a pecan-picking crew across the region for several decades. He was also a prolific arrowhead hunter, with a collection that few could rival—a testament to his patience, curiosity, and connection to the land.
Karen worked locally as a bank bookkeeper for many years before transitioning into retail, where she served as a supervisor. She found joy in gardening, yardwork, photographing nature, and pranking others - especially on April 1st. Halloween was her favorite holiday, and her love for candy was legendary. Every Thanksgiving, she made the best deviled eggs and pecan pie—family favorites that became cherished traditions.
After retirement, James and Karen spent their days doing the things they loved most—together. Their devotion to one another was unwavering, and from that love, they raised two daughters who are forever grateful for the lives they were given.
James is preceded in death by his parents, Colleen and Bob Simmons; his beloved wife, Karen; and his brothers, David Simmons and John Simmons.
He is survived by his daughters, Amber (Simmons) Tilles and husband Michael, and Audrey Simmons; his sister, Mary (Simmons) Maurer and husband Gary; and his brother, Dan Simmons and wife Terry.
As per his wishes, no formal service will be held. James and Karen were cremated, and their ashes will be lovingly spread together in a place chosen by their daughters. Just as they walked through life side by side, they will rest together in peace. Their journey is complete—free from suffering and strife—and they leave behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew them.
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