Ray Simmons, of Independence, Missouri passed away peacefully at the VA Hospital, Kansas City, MO, at the age of 73 years, on August 16, 2021 .

Born in St Joseph, MO, to Clint W and Gennieve Simmons (both deceased), his family moved to Springfield and he spent the early years of childhood there. Eventually, the family moved north to Kansas City and Ray attended North Kansas City High School.

He was completely devoted to his family. Wife (Marilyn), son Joey, and step-children Robin, Jess, Gary, Jennifer (Rick), Jon, Joe (Michelle).
Ray had 7 siblings. Billy (Joanne), Betty (Jim - deceased), Paul - deceased (Marie), Mary (Carl - deceased), Clint - deceased (Susan), John (Donna), Mike - deceased.

He was a loving Grandpa to Bunky (Tiffany - deceased), Damian (Sandie), Justin (Emily), Paul Robert (Alyssa), Jonathan (Megan), Tera (Dylan), Dawn Marie, Shelby (Chris), Bradley, Amanda (Anthony), Carly, Madison, Christopher (Ciara), Cody, Jana, Skyler

He adored his great-grandchildren. Hunter, Calista, Samantha, Lillie, Mallorie, Avery, Justin Micah, Olivia, Gabriel, Finley, Marissa, Asher, Addie Grace, Emaleigh, Mylie, Braiden, Maniya, Lavaiya, Ja’Kari, Matthew, Memphis, Leia, Liv, Lexus and CJ will miss their Papa Ray very much. He was an Uncle to numerous nieces and nephews and a friend and confidante to many.

Ray was a US Army Veteran who served one full tour in Vietnam. Following his military duty he drove for Checker Cab in Independence, MO. After retirement, Ray underwent a successful liver transplant, thanks to the remarkable care given to him by the VA Hospitals in KC and Houston. Ray LOVED Kansas City sports and was an avid fan of Royals baseball and Chiefs football. He really enjoyed music, primarily gospel, Christian and country. He liked traveling to Branson with family and jumped at every opportunity to be with his family, whom he loved so deeply. Most of all he loved the Lord Jesus Christ. He was a devoted Christian who spent countless hours studying His Word and sharing it with anyone who would listen. He attended Grace Church in Independence. A Celebration of Life service will be held, on Aug 27th at Grace Church (1915 N. Liberty) in Independence, MO. Visitation will begin at 1pm and the service will begin at 2.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ray Simmons Memorial Fund, to assist with arrangements.