Deacon Benjamin Simmons

** In honor of Deacon Benjamin Simmons, the family ask that you wear any shade of blue on the day of the service. **

With gratitude and deep affection, we remember the life of Deacon Benjamin Simmons, whose journey from humble beginnings to community pillar left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Born on May 29, 1946, Benjamin embodied strength, skill, and quiet leadership. A proud U.S. Army veteran, he served bravely during the Vietnam War, rising swiftly to the rank of Staff Sergeant and commanding an armored squadron with courage and clarity. His strength under fire became the bedrock of a lifetime spent in service to others.

In 1983, Benjamin united in holy matrimony with the love of his life, Joyce Simmons. Their bond was a testament to enduring love, rooted in mutual respect, shared faith, and unwavering support for one another.

After his military service, Benjamin worked at the Naval Shipyard as a welder, eventually pursuing his passion and founding Simmons Radiator Repair in Round O, South Carolina. Known across the Lowcountry as a master welder and honest craftsman, he became a trusted name to many.

Benjamin’s commitment to service extended beyond the workplace into the heart of his faith community. As a devoted member of Canaan Baptist Church, he served faithfully as a trustee, Sunday School teacher, choir president, and deacon. He found deep joy in teaching the adult Sunday School class, where he shared the gospel with wisdom, humility, and a love for Scripture that inspired all who heard him.

Benjamin was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce; his mother, Addie Belle Reid; his parents, Martha and Benjamin Simmons; and his four brothers: Butch Reid, Benjamin “Finch” Reid, Ronny Reid, and Joseph Reid. 

His memory will continue to be cherished by his son, Kenya Simmons (Edna) of Atlanta, Georgia; his daughter, Shani Simmons (Chris) of Conyers, Georgia; his granddaughters, Shaniah of Conyers, Georgia, and Na’Shay and Jordyn of Atlanta, Georgia; his stepchildren, Kilo Mack (Dyann) and Monique Hinton (Kevin), both of Maryland; his sister, Norma Yvonne Bistrow (Restine) of Atlanta, Georgia, and his sister-in-law, Patricia Summers, of Fredericksburg, Virginia.  There are numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends that will hold his memory in their hearts.

Benjamin was more than a father, a teacher, or a craftsman—he was a man of unwavering principles, a calm and steady presence, and a light to his community. His memory lives on in every life he touched and in every heart he lifted.

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