Jesse "Pa Wayne" Simmons

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jesse Wayne Simmons, affectionately known as "Pa Wayne," who died on September 7, 2025, at the age of 83. Jesse was born in Manchester, Tennessee, on October 18, 1941, to the late Harvey and Naomi Simmons.

A man of deep faith and community, Pa Wayne was a member of Hillcrest Baptist Church and an ordained deacon who had previously served at Union Missionary Baptist Church in the Asbury Community. He was a familiar face at the Senior Citizens building where he and his beloved wife, Louise, would spend their Friday and Saturday nights dancing to country bands. He also enjoyed attending the Country Junction.

Pa Wayne had a lifelong love for farming and everything John Deere. He was an avid collector of John Deere toy tractors and cherished his time spent camping, surrounded by nature. Above all, Pa Wayne will be remembered for the love he had for his family. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Louise Simmons; his daughter, Tina (Barry) Keele; his granddaughter, Alannah (Josh) Inzer; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.

A funeral service to honor Jesse's life will be held on Thursday at 11:00 AM at Manchester Funeral Home, with Reverend Keith Nunley officiating. The burial will follow at Asbury Methodist Church Cemetery in the Asbury Community. The family will receive friends for visitation at the funeral home on Wednesday from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Jesse will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.