Services

Sunday, April 28, 2024

3:00 PM

Welch Street Church of Christ

Bro. C. Rodney Smith, Minister

Interment with Marine Honors

Monday, April 29, 2024

1:00 PM

Fort Sill National Cemetery, Elgin, OK

Wells Funeral Home is inviting you to a Zoom Celebration of Life for

DOUGLAS SIMMONS

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83083813741

Meeting ID: 830 8381 3741
Passcode: Simmons

In loving memory of Douglas Simmons, an American hero whose life exemplified courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to God, family, community, and country.

He was born on November 11th, 1947, in Quanah, Texas, to Theodore and Curley Simmons. A man of unwavering bravery, Douglas answered his nation's call by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps on September 1st, 1966. Throughout his service, he represented the Marine Corps’ values with distinction, rising to the rank of sergeant and earning numerous accolades for his bravery and selflessness during two tours in the Vietnam War. Douglas was awarded the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, Good Conduct Meal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and a Rifle Marksmanship Badge, in addition to receiving a Letter of Commendation. Upon leaving the military after over six years of service, Douglas earned a degree in Recreation from Texas A&I University. After 11 years at PPG Glass, Douglas completed a Master’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation from the University of North Texas and resumed what he loved…a career of helping others via positions such as Director of the East Branch YMCA, HealthSouth (now called Encompass), and the City of Wichita Falls.

Douglas found profound joy and purpose in his family. He shared a lifetime of love with his beloved wife Marilyn (née Singleton), and together they raised four children: Reginald (wife Wendy), Anjuan (wife Aneika), Antuan, and Marsha. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, whom he cherished dearly: Nia, Jasmine, Koveil, Kyric, and Vicia, who all brought him immeasurable pride and joy. Douglas had 11 siblings and many nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly. He leaves behind his sisters: Marilyn Gooden, Ophelia Brigham, and Gladys Hughes. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Flossie Houston, Joann Simmons, Marvin Simmons, Frankie Mae Simmons, Carreen Hearne, Bobbie Jean Wilson, Sharon Simmons, and Jacklan Lou Lewis.

Douglas departed this world on April 16th, 2024. Among his family and in his community, Douglas was known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to helping others. He was an active, long-time member of the Welch Street Church of Christ where he served in many capacities, including Church Elder.

In the depth of our sorrow, let us also celebrate the extraordinary life of Douglas Simmons—a patriot, servant, loving husband, devoted father, and American hero. May his legacy of service continue to inspire generations to come