John Wayne Simmons, 82, of Magnolia, Mississippi, passed away on June 28, 2025, at University Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi.

John was born on January 24, 1943, in Magnolia to John Lynn Simmons and Ruby Pigott Simmons Ginn. He grew up living on the family farm with his grandmother, Mayme Simmons, who lovingly raised him and sent him to school at St. Mary of the Pines in Chatawa for his elementary years. He later graduated from Magnolia High School. He was the fifth generation of John Simmons to live on and care for the family farm, where he raised cattle for many years—a legacy he was deeply proud of. His strong work ethic also carried into his professional life, where he retired from Weyerhaeuser after 44 years of dedicated service.

John had a passion for restoring old cars and trucks, and he found great joy in cooking and spending time with his friends and family. Whether on the farm, in the kitchen, or gathered around the table, he was a strong and determined man, bringing wisdom and laughter to every room.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jane Simmons; his children, John Ashley Simmons (Tansy Graves), Alisa Simmons Stewart (Todd), and stepdaughter Jan Humphries (Robbie); his grandchildren, Tyler Stewart (Leah), Madison Stewart, Sarah Simmons, Leah Simmons, Matthew Simmons, Eli Simmons, Tanner Humphries, and Addison Humphries; and his great-grandchildren, Whitlee Stewart, Walker Stewart, and William Reid Stewart.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at 10:45 a.m., followed by a service at 12:00 p.m. at Catchings-Sharkey Funeral Home in Summit, Mississippi. A graveside service will follow at Mars Hill Cemetery, also in Summit.

John will be remembered for his enduring love for his family, his deep Mississippi roots, and the life he lived with strength, purpose, and heart.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.sharkeyfuneralhome.com.