Howard Dwight Simmons, 85 of Auburn, IL formerly of Mt. Auburn, IL went to be with the Lord on Monday, March 30, 2020 at 2:12 a.m. at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, IL. He was the oldest son of six boys born to Samuel and Estella Simmons on December 16, 1934 in Vandalia, IL. The family moved to Mt. Auburn, IL where he graduated High School in the class of 1954. He met and married Shirley A. White on August 6, 1955 in the Mt. Auburn Methodist Church. He worked at Fiat Allis and farmed on the side. He built their home in Mt. Auburn, IL. 

He is survived by his wife Shirley Simmons; Children: David D. (Brenda) Simmons of Auburn, IL; Daniel H. (Beth) Simmons of Mt. Auburn, IL; Janet L. (Jerry) Sheley of Chatham, IL; five grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren and three step great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and a great-grandchild. 

Howard loved the Lord and was a lifelong member, superintendent and teacher of the Stonington Church of the Nazarene until it closed. They then became members of the Taylorville Christian Church. He loved his family especially his grandchildren, farming, going to farm sales and buying toy tractors. After retiring and health issue Howard and Shirley sold the farm and moved to Auburn, IL to Eastland Retirement Center.    

Due to the Virus and the CDC recommendations private graveside services will be held in Grove City Cemetery in Grove City, IL with Pastor James Jones officiating.

Memorials may be made to Taylorville Christian Church 1124 N. Webster St. Taylorville, IL 62568.  

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. 

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