Matthew Simmons

Matthew Simmons (100), was born in Marshall County, MS on July 18, 1922 to the late Oscar Simmons and Lucy Sweeney. He entered “eternal rest” the morning of February 19, 2023. Siblings who preceded him in death are: Walter Lee Simmons, Earnestine “Ernie” Lockhart, and Gennie T. Glover.

Brother Matthew accepted Christ as his “Personal Savior” and joined Clear Creek Missionary Baptist Church. He loved the Lord and being in the Lord’s House. At Clear Creek Missionary Baptist Church he served on various boards and as a deacon for over 50 years. He was the oldest male member and prior to his death was the Deacon Emeritus.

He enlisted in the army in 1942 and served during WWII. He served in the 969th Field Artillery Battalion from 1942-1945. For his bravery while injured in the war he was the recipient of the military’s Purple Heart. He also received the military’s Good Conduct Medal, Distinguished Unit Medal, and World War II Victory Medal. On leave from the military, he found the love of his life. Young and in love he married his beloved wife, Rossie Lee Fondren on August 25, 1943. To this union five children were born: Lee Ronnie, Henry, Shirley, Larry, and Mathanial. This union lasted until Rossie’s death.

Upon returning from the war, he worked in several different industries. He gained employment with the University of Mississippi at the Continuing Education Building in various capacities. He remained in their employment until his retirement.

Mr. Matthews, as he was affectionately called by many, loved interacting and talking with people. He could always be found with a smile on his face and a laugh in his heart. He always enjoyed a good joke, a good meal, and watching his Westerns and the News. He loved the outdoors and could be found fishing, hunting, and gardening.

Matthew was blessed with a wonderful family. He leaves many to cherish his precious memory. He is survived by his children: Lee Ronnie (Robert) Jones of St. Louis, MO; Henry (Hattie) Simmons and Mathanial (Ethel) Simmons both of Oxford, MS; and Larry (Lynette) Simmons of Memphis, TN. He is survived by his grandchildren: Kimberly Lee of Florissant, MO; Michael Simmons, Shawn (Erica) Avent, Keesha Austin, and Christopher Simmons, Mark Simmons all of Oxford, MS; LaRhonda Simmons and Latebony Simmons of Memphis, TN; Kyla (Demetrius) Armstrong of Water Valley, MS; Matesia Simmons, Martin Simmons of Oxford, MS, and Mathan Simmons of San Antonio, TX. He had 15 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews. He leaves a special niece, Clara Pickette of Milwaukee, WI. Also long time work friend Bro. David Ard.

He was preceded in death by his wife Rossie Fondren, two infant daughters and Shirley Simmons Fox of Oxford, MS; his grandson, Robert Lamont Jones, of St. Louis, MO; and great-granddaughter, Aurelia Simmons of Oxford, MS.