Jesse Eugene "Gene" Simmons, 93, passed away on February 24, 2025, in Willow Park, Texas.

Celebration of His Life: 2:00 pm, Saturday, March 15, 2025, at  Grace Point Church in Springtown (4110 E Hwy 199).

Born on September 18, 1931, in Memphis, Tennessee. Jesse lived a full and vibrant life marked by dedication to his family, career, and passions. Jesse worked as an electrician before transitioning into a career as a wire salesman. After retiring and settling in Azle, Texas, he became an active member of Fort Worth Elks Lodge #124, where he enjoyed many festivities and camaraderie. His generosity extended beyond his social circles-he was a dedicated supporter of St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital and the Commemorative Air Force. He also volunteered with and supported the Salvation Army.

Jesse had a lifelong love for the outdoors. In his younger years, he was active in the Civil Air Patrol and became a pilot. Jesse's passion for flying opened the door for many adventures. He was a co-pilot for singer Jerry Lee Lewis for several years. He had the opportunity to meet a few famous people. He met Ernest Borgnine, Gene Simmons of the band KISS, and Steven Segal. Jesse had the honor of meeting our President Donald J. Trump. He found joy in fishing and duck hunting and was an avid camper who loved traveling in his motorhome. Boating and sailing were among his favorite pastimes as well. A devoted NASCAR fan, he never missed an opportunity to enjoy the races.

A man of deep faith, Jesse was a Christian who considered Grace Point Church in Springtown, Texas to be his church home. He lived by Christian values and carried a positive outlook on life that inspired those around him. No matter the circumstance, when asked how he was doing, Jesse would always respond with a cheerful "Mar-vel-ous!"

Jesse is survived by his beloved wife, Mirion Finch Simmons; his children, Cheryl Laney and husband, Jim, Richard Dennis Simmons and wife, Cindy, and Anita Graham and husband Robert G.  He was a cherished grandfather to Tiffany Plante, Robert Eugene Graham, Nicholas Lee Graham, Kristin Renee Graham, Kathryn Lacy Simmons Padgett, Heather Ward, and Kayla Murphy. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Christopher Pinson, Madison Pinson, Johnny Foster, Robert Josiah Graham, Jacob Ryker Graham, Olivia Lee Graham, and Jake Plante, Alexis Ward, Layla Ward, Wyatt Chandler, Jeromy Murphy Jr., Kali Murphy, and Cash Murphy; as well as his great-great grandchild, Grayson Pinson. Additionally, Jesse is remembered by his stepchildren, Yuvonne Woodson, Kay Morton, Tim Stevens, and Lisa Spegilmyer

He was preceded in death in by his parents, Dora Ingraham Simmons and Lonnie Ernest Simmons; his first wife, Barbara Martindale Simmons; and his brother, Lonnie Clifton Simmons.

Jesse's warmth and enthusiasm for life will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him.