Verle Gene Simmons

It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dad. He passed peacefully in his sleep on August 11, 2025.

Dad was born on November 23,1944 in the small town of Gorman, Texas to staff Sgt. Wilber E. Simmons and Opal Mozelle Duke Simmons. He was also the oldest of three children.

He was raised in Gorman where he lived out his adventurous instincts as a child along the riverbanks, fishing, hunting, looking for arrowheads, wearing his coon hat, and bringing home rabbits and squirrels for his mama to fry.

He played football for the Gorman Panthers and was so strong and mighty that he earned the name "Big Daddy".

He met and married Nadean Fraley in 1963 and had three children. He took his family to Andrews Tx in 1965 to pursue a career in the oilfield. He was greatly successful and well trained to work any position in the oilfield. In 1980, he moved his family back to Gorman to be closer to family. He retired from the oilfield as a driller and went to work for A.O. Easley in Gorman driving an 18-wheeler which he loved to do. He always loved traveling, vacations, and adventures.

Dad never met a stranger. He always had stories to tell and could talk for hours. He was always willing to help anyone.

Dad's hard working and adventurous spirit inspired his children to embrace life's opportunities and challenges with courage and determination, and to stand strong as he lived.

He was very proud of his children for being the strong people he had hoped for. Afterall, we were taught by the mighty oak who could stand tall through anything.

Gene is survived by his children Laneta Ann Simmons and husband Duane, Jimmy Verle Simmons, Jerry Wayne Simmons and wife Tammy. 11 grandchildren Wesley, Chelsea, Matthew, Halie, Mason, Kyler, Avery, Kasey, Kassidy, Melanie, Una, and his sister Vicki Lewis.

He is preceded in death by his parents Wilbur and Opal Simmons, and brother Tommy Simmons.

Dad is at home with his heavenly family now and is whole again. He is at peace and able to touch the face of God. We love you Dad and will miss you. We know you will be there to welcome us when we meet again. We will see you later.