Arnold Eugene "Gene" Simmons

He was my elementary school Principal. I was well behaved because I was scared to death to go to the Principal's office. He seemed like a huge stern man. When I got to know him as an adult he was just the nicest person in the world. I have always admired him.

Uncle Gene, as I knew him, was always a happy, energetic, caring uncle who loved to laugh. He brought such big smiles, funny jokes, lots of intelligent stories to our family gatherings. He taught me, through my observation of him, that every person is important. Work, play, education, family...these things mattered and I saw it throughout his life. He did things that mattered in life. I once found a letter he wrote his brother, my dad, giving such concern and love. This man showed others...

I attended Brownsfield Elementary School while Mr. Simmons was the Principal. He was engaged with the students, a kind and loving man. He was a neighbor, and attended church with my family. My mother, Mildred Taylor, was a teacher at Brownfields Elementary while Mr, Simmons was there and she thought so much of him and the family. I wish I had the chance to know him after I became a man. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.

Mr. Simmons was my principal in the first grade through Jr. High & some of High School. He was a large influence on my early life. No one could ask for a better man to be their school Principal. May he rest in peace....

My prayers for Mr. Simmons family. I worked for him during the 1977-1978 school year as a high school senior through the COE program. He was an awesome supervisor and I learned so much that year. I was so glad to see and be able to talk to him about 4 years ago.

I remember MR Simmons where I went to Baker High. I remember him as being caring and nice. My condolences to the family