Richard Michael Simmons

Michael Simmons MARION-Michael Simmons, 57, of Marion passed away at 3:05 AM, Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at his home. Funeral services will be held at 6:00 PM, Friday, July 23, 2010 at the Blue Funeral Home in Marion with Reverend John Burnett officiating. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until the time of the service on Friday at the funeral home. Masonic rites will be held following the visitation on Friday evening. Memorials may be made to Shriner’s Hospital; envelopes are available at the funeral home or may be sent c/o Blue Funeral Home, Po Box 411, Marion, IL 62959. Michael was born on December 21, 1952 in Herrin to Fred and Lyda (Edwards) Simmons. He married Tamera Gayer on August 7, 1982 in Plumfield; together they shared over 27 years of marriage. Survivors include his wife, Tamera Simmons; his children, Justin and Melissa Killion, Sean and Brandy Simmons, Stephen Simmons, Stephanie Simmons, Eric Simmons and Erica Simmons; grandchildren, Justice, MaLeah, Saxton, Seth, Alec, Camryn and Tristen; brother, Fred E.Simmons; sister, Christy Cripps; and his special friend, his dog, “Lady”. He was preceded in death by his parents; half-brother, Danny Croslin; and nephew, Kyle Cripps. Michael was an SIU graduate with a teaching degree in Special K-12 Art Education. He formerly worked as an Art teacher at Herrin Junior High School, formerly owned Simmons Furniture in Marion and he was a retired coal miner. He was of the Presbyterian faith. He was a member of the Marion Masonic Lodge 89 AF & AM, Williamson County Shrine Club, Benton Eagles and sons of the American Legion.