Robert Harris Simmons

Robert Harris “Coach” Simmons, 86, of Lake City, passed away on Saturday morning, March 28, 2026 in Lake City after a brief illness. He was born in Menlo, Georgia on October 11, 1939 to the late Joe Simmons and Mamie Harris Simmons. He made Lake City his home beginning in 1964 after moving from Northwest Georgia.

He worked for over 40 years with the Columbia County School District, first serving as an Assistant Football Coach and Golf Team Coach under Paul Quinn at Columbia High School. After Quinn’s departure, Coach Simmons was chosen as Head Football Coach and Athletic Director at Columbia High, where he became the winningest football coach in the program’s history. Following his coaching career, he served as Principal of Richardson Middle School and Fort White Elementary School before retiring in 2003.

Bobby was a member of the Lake City Country Club for more than 40 years and continued playing golf until his health no longer allowed it. In addition, he was a dedicated cyclist who rode his bike every morning. He was also a member of Elks Lodge No. 893 and Providence Village Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Suzanna Simmons Barrs; his sister and brother-in-law, Joan and Les Mathis; and his grandson, Brad Barrs.

He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Mona Clyatt Simmons of Lake City and his bonus children, Dustin Brannan and Bridget Hosford (Trey) both of Lake City. His son, Jeff Simmons (Nancy) of Lake City; seven grandchildren, Brian Barrs (Pam), Joshua Simmons (Liza), Justin Simmons (Misa), Jacob Simmons, Destin Hosford, Sydney Hosford and Harper Hosford; along with two great-grandchildren, Ada Lillian Simmons and Edison Nguyen-Ngoc Simmons also survive.

A memorial service for Coach Simmons will be conducted on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the Gateway-Forest Lawn Memorial Chapel with Dr. Mike Tatem officiating, assisted by Coach Brian Allen, CHS Principal Trey Hosford, and Mr. Mike Lee. The family will have a time of visitation on Tuesday evening, March 31, 2026 from 5:00-7:00 P.M. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations please be considered to the Columbia High School Quarterback Club. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.