Philip Ray Simmons

Philip Ray Simmons, Sr., 90, of New Philadelphia passed away early Friday morning, December 13, 2013 in the Community Hospice House.

Born in Goshen in his parents’ home on January 12, 1923, he was the son of the late John Nathanial and Caroline H. (Brown) Simmons.

He was a graduate of Tuscarawas-Warwick High School and then served in the United States Army, discharged as a Corporal.

On April 3, 1948, Philip married his lifelong companion and friend, the late Mary T. (Meechan) Simmons.
He spent his professional career as a lumber jack for 43 years.

Philip loved spending time cheering on his grandchildren at their sporting events. He also enjoyed horseback riding, especially on Harry. His dog, Chipper, was his best friend.

Philip will be missed by daughter and son, Exe Lane (Dan) Watson of Senecaville, O., and Philip (Diana) Simmons, Jr. of Orrville, O.; his sisters, Gloria Routte of Chillicothe and Florence Parker of Dennison; his brother, Carl “Jum” Simmons of Uhrichsville; grandchildren, Bryan (Rayna) Finnicum of Bolivar, Mark (Jamie) Finnicum of Raleigh, NC, Keri (Mike) Hamsher of Orrville, Lacey (Adam) Handwerk of Orrville, and Kyle Simmons of Royal Oak, MI; and 11 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife Mary, who passed away in 2005, Philip was preceded in death by his sister, Eileen Romine.

Visitation will be held in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia on Monday from 4 to 7 p.m. A service celebrating Philip’s life will be held in the funeral home’s chapel on Tuesday beginning at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in St. James Lutheran Cemetery where military honors will be rendered. A meal will be shared at the Geib Family Center following the committal service.

Philip’s family is grateful to the staff of the Community Hospice House for the remarkable and compassionate attention they received while in their care.

Memorial contributions in Philip’s memory may be directed to the Community Hospice House, 716 Commercial Avenue SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.