A resident of Mattapan, MA, James Lee Simmons, Sr.  was born February 23, 1940 to the late Clyde and Rosa (Bell) Simmons.

James (Jim) attended the Lenoir County public school system and graduated from the Woodington High School in Kinston, North Carolina before moving to Boston in 1962.  A man who loved to work and a passion to support his family, worked for Capital Tire (GoodYear) Company in Roxbury, MA; The (MBTA) Ride in Somerville, MA; and  Museum of Fine Arts in Avon, where he was employed before becoming ill in 2013.

On Thursday, August 28, 2014 , while in the home, God called him to his eternal rest. To know Jim, was to love him. Although he will not be with us in the flesh, the wonderful memories that we have of him will forever remain in our hearts.

He leaves a legacy of love and admiration to a devoted wife, Mrs. Mary Simmons of the home. Two sons: DeGary Simmons of Braintree, MA and James Simmons Jr. of Philadelphia, PA. Three daughters: Lawanda Simmons of Kinston, North Carolina; Theresa Simmons of Dorchester, MA and Subrena Simmons of Boston, MA. One daughter-in-law Celica of Braintree, MA; 23 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; Three step-sons: Stephen Weathers of Brockton, MA; Larry Weathers of Brockton, MA  and Jerome Adams of Brockton, MA and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

He also leaves behind to cherish: One brother, Leonard Simmons  and his wife Mamie of Mount Vernon, NY; Two  sisters: Ida Williams  and her husband Ishmon and Bertha Hines of Kinston, North Carolina.

Funeral will be held on Tuesday, September 2,  2014 at Noon, at Dolan Funeral Home, 1140 Washington St. DORCHESTER LOWER MILLS.  Visitation will be held one hour  prior 11:00-Noon.  Interment Forest Hills Cemetery, Boston.