Raymond Douglas Simmons Sr.

June 2, 1942 - July 16, 2019

Florence, South Carolina Raymond Douglas Simmons, Sr., 77, of Florence died on Tuesday, July 16, 2019. A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2019 at 11:00 AM at the Bethea Baptist Home Chapel in Darlington. Dr. Rev. Jeff Cockrell and Mr. Simmons son, Reverend Raymond Douglas Simmons, Jr. will be officiating the service. The family will receive friends following the service in the in fellowship hall. Raymond was born in Rogersville, TN and was raised in Surgoinsville, TN. He was the son of the late William “Bill” and Constance Brice Simmons. Raymond graduated from Volunteer High School in Church Hill, TN and also attended college at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, TN. He served his Country in the Vietnam War in United States Air Force and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross medal. Raymond worked as a Court Reporter for the US District Courts. He was a member of the VFW in Rogersville, TN Post Number 9543 and the American Legion Post Number 172 in Columbia, SC. Raymond was also an avid golfer. Surviving are his son, Reverend Raymond Douglas Simmons, Jr. and wife, Terry of Darlington; his brothers, Isaac Simmons (Sylvia) of Rogersville, TN; Billy Joe Simmons of Smithburg, MD; Bobby Dean Simmons (Martha) of Gate City, VA; and Lance Simmons of Surgoinsville, TN; and his sisters, Noel Westberry of Daytona Beach, FL; and Mary Simmons of Lake City, FL; and longtime friend, Vince Rowland. Raymond was preceded in death by his parents listed above; and by his sister, Brenda Gail Cupp. Memorials may be made to Bethea Baptist Home, 157 Home Ave, Darlington, SC 29532; Palmetto Rural Fire Department, 1304 E. McIver Road, Darlington, SC 29532 or to Darlington Rescue, 107 S. Sycamore Street, Darlington, SC 29532. Arrangements are being handled by Kistler-Hardee Funeral Home & Crematory of Darlington, SC. Family and friends are invited to sign the online guest book at www.kistlerhardeefuneralhome.com