Edward L. Simmons Sr.

Edward L. Simmons, the son of the late Lucious Simmons Sr., and Louise C. McGehee Simmons, was born November 2,1944 in Gary, IN. He graduated from Roosevelt High School Class of 1962. After graduating high school, Ed enlisted in the United States Navy in August 1963 and served until 1967. During his time with the United States Navy, Ed served in the Vietnam War and received medals for his service. After an honorable discharge from the U.S Navy, Ed returned home to Gary, IN. Shortly after his return to Gary, in 1969 he became the first black hired for Great Lakes Cooling and Heating where he worked for several years before he started working for Gary Community School Corporation. Ed retired as a Master Pipefitter from Gary Community School Corp in 2012.

Ed loved his family dearly and enjoyed dancing, military history, and sports. He was a proud supporter of his community and served as Chaplin and an Advisor for the Simmons Family Council, created by his youngest brother Amaloy J. Mkata. He was a Coach for Pop Warner Football, member of the United Male Chorus of Indiana. He is also a member of the VFW 2151 Post, Local 597 Pipefitter Union, Roosevelt Adult Booster Club, and 1962 Class Reunion Committee Member. Ed was recently recognized by St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church as a 50 year plus member where he serves on the Usher Board and Male Chorus. 

Betty R. Reeves – Simmons, the love of his life for 57 years, preceded him in death in January 2024. Also, preceding him in death is one grandchild, three sisters and two brothers. He leaves to honor and celebrate him here on earth his children; Yvonne Simmons – Berry, Edward (Janet) Simmons, Theodore Simmons, and Sean (LaKeyla) Wheeler. Grandchildren; Steven Berry, Richard Chatman II, Theo Simmons, Zach Hamlin, Edward A. Simmons, Jonathan Simmons, and Kamani Gore, Amarri Wheeler, Vanessa Wheeler, and Kaycee Wheeler. Great-grandchildren; Sa’Niah J. Carter, Rayven Chatman, Braylan Berry, and Jordan Chatman. Sister, Ella S. Monroe; Sisters-in-law Frances Smith, and Georgianne Ross. Brothers Paul D. Simmons, and Amaloy J. Mkata (Robert C. Simmons); Brother-in-law Eugene (Alyn) Reeves and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Ed will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.