Gerald Arthur Simmons Sr., 77, of Okeechobee, died Nov. 24, 2015.
He was born in Plant City. He was an operating engineer. Earlier in life, he was a rodeo cowboy. He enjoyed NASCAR, Lake Okeechobee and fishing with his best friend, Roger. Some of his favorite foods were fried oysters and hushpuppies at Lightsey’s Seafood Restaurant.
He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Sandy; son, Gerald Arthur Simmons Jr. (Kaleigh); daughters, Charity Christal Lomax (Greg Hopper), Kelly Michelle Hopper (Jason) and Tara Jean Teti; grandchildren, Shelby, Jonah, Hailey, Drew, Joe, Daniel and Brett; and great-grandchild, Luka.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Thelma and Booth Whitehead; and grandparents, Authur and Leatha Idell Kelley.
A visitation was held Nov. 28 at Wells Memorial & Event Center. A funeral service followed with Pastor Joe Bowles officiating. Burial was held at East Oaklawn Cemetery.
Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.