James H. Simmons Jr.

June 10, 1940 - June 6, 2020

OBITUARY Sunrise Sunset June 10, 1940 June 6, 2020 James H. Simmons Jr., better known as Jerry to many, lived a happy and rewarding life which came to a close on the afternoon of Saturday, June 6, 2020. He was surrounded by his family when he transitioned from his earthly life to be with his heavenly Father. James, an only child, was born on June 10, 1940, in Rutherford, Alabama to his parents, the late Jessie Mokins and James H. Simmons, Sr. During his formative years he was raised in a loving home that included his grandfather Richard Mokins, who provided an early foundation of Christian Values. The family later relocated to Columbus, Georgia where he received his education in the public-school system. Upon graduating from Spencer High School, James honorably served in the United States Navy for ten years. His tours of duty included many international locations. While stationed in Key West, Florida, he met and married his wife of 54 years, Glenda (nee Bennett). After departing the military James enrolled in RCA Technical Institute in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and in 1969, graduated with a specialty in Electronics Technology. Over the course of his career, he also earned additional technology certifications and attended Rutgers University. Prior to retiring in 2002, James worked as a Field Service Engineer for thirty-four years maintaining large scale mainframe computers, networks, and computer peripheral equipment. He began his career in New York City at General Electric Corporation’s Computer Division and later worked for Honeywell and several of its subsidiaries. While employed, he received several awards for his outstanding performance, including the National Field Engineer of the Year award. Known for his sense of humor, James would often lighten the mood with a joke when needed. He was gregarious and kind. He leaves a legacy of dedicated, selfless service to the church, his family and friends. More than 27 years ago, when the late Rev. Harroldean Ashton served as Priest-in-Charge at St. Alban’s Church, New Brunswick, NJ, James made a spiritual commitment at his confirmation. Since then his unwavering faith in God sustained him while serving in various capacities at St. Alban’s. He has served as the Jr. Warden with responsibility for church properties and founder and Manager of the Thrift Shop. In the past, James transported food twice a week for distribution at the church’s Food Pantry, was a member of the Sunday finance team, the Men’s Club and served as an usher and an acolyte. Additionally, in 2006, he was co-chair of Men’s Day. James was active with many of the church’s fundraising activities that include coordinating the semi-annual yard sales and serving as “chef” at his famous fish frys. He received the Community Service award from the Ebony Suburbanites of Middlesex and Somerset Counties for his efforts with their Annual Debutante Cotillions. He was also acknowledged by the Canon John H. Reece Scholarship Fund for his assistance with their endeavors to provide scholarships to minority youth in Key West, Florida. James was preceded in death by his parents. His memory will forever be cherished by his wife, Glenda; son, James Simmons, III and wife, Bernirene Ramos of New York, NY; daughter, Janae Tucker and husband, Thomas of Delaware, Ohio; grandchildren, Jaedyn and Jai Tucker of Delaware, Ohio; and Logan and James Simmons of New York, NY; sister-in-law, June Joseph of Monroe, NJ; brother-in law, Robert Bennett and wife, Susie of Leisure City, FL; two devoted cousins, Syndon Cunningham of Columbus, Ohio and The Rev. Viola Clay of Warner Robbins, Georgia, numerous family members and a host of coveted friends.