Howard Easter Simmons

Every child comes into the world wanting to be loved and protected. Howard Easter Simmons, born on Easter Sunday, March 27, 1921, was the kind of man who provided that for his family members. On August 7, 2018, at the age of 97, he left this earthly life to enter into eternity with God, whom he served. He was the epitome of the “Greatest Generation”. By the time he was twelve years old, he was working 8 hours a day, 6 days a week for $.50 a day during the summer to help his family. He served in WWII and came home to start a family, soon taking in his widowed mother to live in his home for ten years. He worked all day for his employer, then went home and worked building several homes by himself over his lifetime, while also planting a large garden so that his family could eat healthy, home-grown food. He was still putting in a garden in his eighties, and going to a health facility to exercise until shortly before his death. In addition, he was often called upon by others to make home repairs and by the church for his electrical skills. He could repair almost anything and was known for the outstanding quality work. His reputation was “if you want something done right, call Howard”. God’s greatest gift to Howard was his late wife, Shirley I. Harris Simmons, who was totally devoted to him. They were married for sixty-six years before she went to her eternal reward in Heaven. Howard’s greatest gift to his children was introducing them to Jesus, and setting an example of integrity, hard work, devotion to providing for family, and service to others. He is survived by his son, Bruce H. Simmons, and his daughter, Janet Simmons Hayashi (Nobuo), six grandchildren; Jonnathon Simmons (Debbie), Susan Simmons, Tracy Barker, Mark Hayashi (Genevieve), Amy Hayashi Reed (Maurice), Lisa Kiku Hayashi, twelve great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Family will receive friends from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, Saturday August 11, 2018 with a funeral service to follow, with Rev. Raymond Cloar officiating. Family and friends will assemble at 3:00 pm at Clark’s Grove Cemetery, for interment service. Smith Funeral &Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Howard Easter Simmons please visit our Sympathy Store.