Nov. 25, 1935-June 15, 2023
A life that touches others goes on forever. Our lives with Jim were full of laughter, tears, and much love. James L. Simmons was born in Brigham City, Utah, on Nov 25, 1935, to June Edwards and Loran F. Simmons (later divorced). In 1945, June married Ralph McLean and they raised Jim in Willard, Utah, Santa Monica, California, and Falls Church, Virginia.
In 1956 Jim married Jeanne Kivisto and had four daughters. Sadly, Jeanne passed away in 1978. Jim enjoyed a 35-year career with the Bureau of Reclamation building dams and water projects in various locations.
On a blind date in November 1979, Jim danced the night away with Linda Dennis in Auburn, California. They married at 12:01 a.m. on New Year’s Day 1983 and have been soulmates for 44 years. Throughout those years, Jim always teased Linda about getting “first prize” and him settling for second. There is no question Linda got the “first prize” in husbands. Jim devoted his life to her, their darling daughters and Linda’s family.
Jim loved and excelled at being a father. He knew his girls were his greatest accomplishment. Not only did he teach them love and compassion but schooled them in camping, boating, water skiing, swimming, softball, tennis, fishing, gun safety, hunting, auto care, driving, boys and special summer “picnics.”
To sum up 87 years of life would take more time and space than is available, but his life was filled with love as he collected many friends and family. Jim loved salmon fishing, golfing, dancing, cowboy hats and boots, listening to audiobooks, two-pocket shirts and banana splits for breakfast.
Jim was a “dam” hard worker, a wine expert (box variety), most-excellent brother-in-law, never gambled a penny, teller of tall tales (mostly true) and always conserved water by taking military showers. His most endearing quality was his unconditional love and care, especially for their moms – June and Ida. In “Lonesome Dove” fashion, Jim and Linda moved Jeanne from Coulee Dam, Washington, to Willard, Utah, for her final resting place.
After retirement, Jim and Linda built a home in Eden, Utah, and became snowbirds. After 20 years, Jim gave up shoveling snow and they moved to sunny Mesquite, Nevada.
He is survived by his “Cupcake” Linda; two daughters Shirley (Artie) Ramudo, Tina (Bob) Soliday; four grandchildren: Justin, Jimmy, Anna and Tony; two honorary grandchildren: Kendalyn and Carlee; five great-grandchildren; extended family and numerous friends.
He was preceded in death by mom June and dad Ralph, twin daughters Sydney and Sandra, and Loran Simmons.
Graveside services will be held Friday, July 7, at 11 a.m. at the Willard Cemetery, 470 North Main St, Willard, Utah.
Linda, Shirley and Tina would like to thank Omnia Care Home Health & Hospice in Mesquite, Nevada, especially Alison and Shari, whose tender loving care helped sustain and entertain Jim and his family.
In lieu of flowers, consider a contribution to your local hospice care facility or animal shelter.
Arrangements are under the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Visit the Metcalf Mortuary website for condolences, complete obituary and funeral listings.