Charles Winning Simmons went to be with the Lord on August 23, 2021 at 11:03pm in Orlando Florida. As was his quiet nature, he went to sleep here and awoke in his heavenly home. Charles was born in East St. Louis, Illinois on April 29, 1931 to Carl and Daisy (Jones) Simmons.
Preceded in death by his father, Carl Simmons, mother, Daisy Simmons, sister, Betty, brother, Donald Simmons, and son-in-law, Norman R. Paslay II. He is survived by his wife Verla (Noel) Simmons, daughters, Jeannine Paslay (Norman) of Cincinnati OH, Janice Leaman (Neil) of St. Louis MO, and Jerolyn Mallicoat (Robert) of Orlando FL, sister Norma Deck (Donald) of Brownstown IN and brother Ron Simmons (Rose) of St. Cloud FL.
Grandchildren: Kristen Paslay Ellis (Thomas), Kandice Paslay Faubert (Chad), Kedrin Paslay Cobb (Michael), Katelyn Paslay Sizemore (Andrew), Lauren Leaman Eubanks (Greg), Lanae Leaman Romey (Cole), Lexie Leaman, Charles Mallicoat, Charla Mallicoat.
Great Grandchildren: Emma Ellis, Audrey Ellis, Ava Ellis, Esther Faubert, Isaac Faubert, Elise Cobb, Emery Cobb, Elizabeth Cobb, Esabel Cobb, Averie Sizemore, Asher Sizemore, Madeleine Eubanks, Micah Eubanks, Malachi Eubanks, and Reagan Romey.
Charles’s nurturing spirit and sense of dedication to family motivated him at age 11 to get a job in a bicycle shop to help provide for his mother and three siblings. After completing the 10 th grade, he left school to work full time at Drug Package, Inc. to support the family. November 16, 1951 Charles was drafted into the United States Army Military Police Command where he served 2 years in Korea. During his daily interaction with the POWs, his aptitude for learning the Japanese and Korean languages became apparent. He completed his service October 30, 1953 and returned to Drug Package, Inc. where he retired after 46 years. In 1955 he married the love of his life Verla Mae Noel. He was smitten with her blonde hair, blue eyes, and spunkiness! Being a man of few words ( his favorite saying ) and her vibrant personality made for a perfect match! May 15, 2021, they celebrated 66 wonderful years.
At the early age of 6, Charles began teaching himself to fix things by taking apart radios, clocks and lawn mowers that his dad would bring home. By taking them apart and putting them back together he soon learned how to fix anything! It was no problem if a part wasn’t available because he would create one, the ultimate fix-it man! He fixed many toys, watches, clocks, appliances, furniture and cars. His daughters and grandchildren quickly learned fixing things was truly his love language. He left his footprint at New Life, St. Louis where he helped to build the present church, served as a trustee on the board, led song service and played the guitar. After moving to Cincinnati in 1998, he left another footprint building The Calvary Church and then continued as building maintenance. Serving the Lord and being faithful to church were top priorities.
One of his favorite hobbies was working on Street Rods. He enjoyed going to car shows and spending time with his friends. His favorite place to visit was his home in Maggie Valley NC, finding relaxation in the mountains. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren just as much as they loved spending time with him. He was known for his perpetual smile and gentle spirit. Always considerate, humble, and loving. He never spoke an unkind word, a gentleman known for his consistency. He leaves behind a significant legacy.
Visitation will be at The Calvary Church, 11970 Kenn Rd., Cincinnati, Ohio 45240, on Saturday, September 4, 2021 from 10:00 to 11:00.
Celebration of Life 11:00.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorials be made to: The Bishop Center, c/o The Calvary Church, 11970 Kenn Rd., Cincinnati, Ohio 45240.