CONWAY, NC – Joseph Drewery J.D. “Smiley” Simmons, age 76, of Barnes Loop Road, passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2020 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.
J.D. was born on January 14, 1944 to Gilbert Clyde Simmons and Lucy Sally Drewery Simmons in Northampton County, NC. He was a dedicated US Marine and served his country during the Vietnam War. He was a loving husband, dad, PaPa, and brother. J.D. was a true family man and cherished his wife, Janet, and his grandsons, always making sure GaGa had food for them when they came to visit. J.D. retired from International Paper where he was better known as “Smiley”. He was a devoted member of Conway Baptist Church and loved his church family. J.D. was always there to help out anyone he could and loved being there for anyone in the community that needed him. He enjoyed his International Harvester and piddling with his brother, Willie.
Along with his parents, J.D. was preceded in death by a brother, David Simmons, and sisters, Francis Buckner, and Marjie Griffin.
J.D. is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Janet, two sons, Joseph Bryce Simmons and special friend, Janice, and Anthony Drewery Simmons and wife Stacy, both of Conway; sister, Martha Rudell and husband Rick of Virginia Beach, VA; brother, Willie G. Simmons of Conway; two grandsons, Joseph Thomas “J.T.” Simmons, and Josh Simmons, both of Conway; granddaughter, Taylor Leggett and husband Shane of Windsor; great-granddaughter, Reagan Leggett of Windsor; special friend, Jean Futrell of Pendleton; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Due to the circumstances, friends can view and pay their respects to J.D. Thursday, April 9, 2020, from 2:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Garrett-Sykes Memorial Chapel, Murfreesboro, NC.
A private family celebration of life service will be held on Friday, April 10, 2020, at 11:00 am at the Conway Baptist Church, Conway, NC, with Rev. Willie McLawhorn officiating with a public graveside burial to follow at Conway Cemetery, Conway, NC.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Vidant Home Health and Hospice and Nurse Leigh Sumner for the love and dedicated care shown them and J.D. during this time.
In lieu memorial contributions may be made directly to Vidant Home Health and Hospice, 521 West Myers Street, Ahoskie, NC 27910 or online by clicking here, or directly to Conway Baptist Church, 229 North Church Street, Conway, NC 27820, or online by clicking here.
Garrett-Sykes Memorial Chapel is handling the arrangements for the Simmons family and online condolences can be directed to the family by visiting garrettsykesfs.com
Mary and I would like to express our sad condolences to Janet and the family for someone we truly loved. JD was a true Marine and the kindest person I have ever met. We were in Nam together and the “old man” (who was 23 at the time) was a quiet leader. I loved JD like a brother and Janet was always treating me like family so as sad as I am about the loss of my brother, I know he is cheering up those in heaven and is at peace for his family. God bless you all and rest in peach JD Semper Fi
Janet, so sorry about the loss of your JD. He was a very kind man and Ron and I remember him fondly. Our condolences to you and all his family. God Bless.
Janet and family and Willie.. I am so sorry to discover today 4/16 that J.D. passed away last week. Your loss is felt by all who have know him. Please know you are in my prayers. He was such a sweet person. We shared some good times though it was years ago one doesn’t forget times spent with friends.
I spent many hours with Smiley in the Bleach Plant at Union Camp. He was always nice and polite. Always seemed like he was so happy. Im sure his family will miss him. Sorry for your loss. Randy Parker
I just read of the loss of Mr. Simmons. I want you all to know I am thinking of you. J.T, & Josh, I am so sorry, and I know how hard it is to lose a grandparent. Love to you all.
Sending our condolences to the family. Sorry due to the coronavirus pandemic we will not be able to attend the services.
Sending our heartfelt sympathy to the loved ones of J.D. Because of the coronavirus pandemic we will not be attending the services. RIP J.D.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Martha we are so sorry for your loss. Prayers and good thoughts for you and your family.
Sorry for your loss. I know he will be greatly missed. My prayers are with you all!