Thomas "Tommy" Reed Simmons, age 82, of Lenoir, North Carolina, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, November 27, 2025.

Tommy was born on November 16, 1943 in Caldwell County to the late Charles and Nellie Simmons.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-father, Marvin Bumgarner; brother, Terry Simmons; and sister, Bobbie Simmons Martin.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of over 60 years, Linda Simmons; brother; Dale Simmons and wife Bonita; step-brothers, Gaither Bumgarner, Randy Bumgarner, and Curtis Bumgarner; sister-in-law, Thelma Simmons; special friends, Emmitt Penley, Gordon Edward Helms, Mike and Elizabeth Keller, Renae and Brian Reynolds, Tyler Reynolds, Chloe Reynolds, Carter Reynolds, Amy Hildebrand, Cameron, Caitlin, and Penelope, Cherie Holden, Crystal Greene, Tammy Eldreth, Linda Austin, Dale and Barbara Fisher, and Jason Hines; fur babies, Eva Jane and Leo; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Tommy was a Christian and was a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church where he taught men's Bible study class. He enjoyed reading his Bible, and traveled extensively nationally and internationally both alone and with his wife, Linda, on personal vacations as well as mission trips for his church. Tommy always smiled and witnessed to those he came across who needed it. He was kind and humble. He never met a stranger. Tommy also enjoyed a great many things such as, macaroni and cheese, puzzles, working in the yard, sports, and watching Jeopardy. Tommy was well loved, but the most important thing to know about Tommy was that he loved the Lord. He will be dearly missed.

A graveside service to honor the life of Thomas "Tommy" Simmons will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025 at 2:00pm at Mt. Zion Baptist Church Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Mike Keller, Tyler Reynolds, Brian Reynolds, Eddie Helms, Jason Hines, and Mike Norris.

Donations can be made in honor of Tommy Simmons to Mt. Zion Baptist Church Food Closet (1787 Cajah Mtn. Rd. Hudson, NC 28638) and Baptist Children's Home of North Carolina (204 Idol St, Thomasville, NC 27360).

An online guestbook is available for signature at www.greer-mcelveenfuneralhome.com.

Greer-McElveen Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family.