Albert Ray Simmons, age 84, of Buckhannon, WV passed away on October 20, 2025, at Ruby Memorial Hospital following an extended illness.
He was born August 24, 1941, in Cassity, WV to the late Mason Simmons and Alma (Pickrell) Simmons. He was married to Judy Nethken on December 21, 1963, who survives. Ray was a graduate of Coalton School.
After High School, Ray began working in the coal mines and sawmills in Cassity. In 1964 Ray and Judy moved to Ohio where he began working at Ford Motor Company. He entered the US Army on August 19, 1966, through May 23, 1968, and served in the Vietnam War. After the war, he returned to work at the Ford Motor Company.
In 1978, they moved to Charlotte, NC and started their own company, SDS Plumbing. Ray retired from his company in 2008. Shortly thereafter, they moved back to Buckhannon, where they remained.
In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his brothers Jim, Larry, Carl and John Simmons; sisters, Betty Pickering and Ida Ellen Simmons.
Surviving are sons, Edward Simmons (Regina) and Joseph Simmons (Stephanie); granddaughters, Heather Motto (Joe), Katie Simmons and Amber Simmons; brothers, Clinton and Delmer Simmons; sisters, Helen Headley and Elsie Flanagan (Bud) and several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Ray was a member of the Masonic Lodge # 737 in Charlotte, NC. Ray also belonged to the American Legion, Shriners and VFW in Buckhannon. Ray also enjoyed hunting, gun collecting, woodworking, quilting, clocks, and playing cards. Even in his declining health he continued working around the house from his wheelchair.
In honoring Ray’s wishes, he will be cremated. A celebration of life will be held November 15, 2025, at The Way of Holiness Church, 2337 Old Weston Road, Buckhannon, WV starting at 11 AM with a luncheon to follow. Ashes will be buried at Mt. Union Cemetery at a private family event on a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mt. Union Church Cemetery, c/o Joe Tallman. A special thank you to Ruby Memorial Hospital, WV Hospice, VA Medical Center, Gail, Brenda and all the caregivers over the last two years.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
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