Vernon Simmons

Minister Vernon Simmons was born to the Late Reverend Cecil Simmons, Sr., and Rev. Kathryn Simmons on March 17, 1953, in Neptune, New Jersey. His lineage includes a long line of Bishops, Pastors, Ministers, Evangelists, Deacons, and Missionaries with a singular purpose – to win souls to Christ. 

Recognizing his need for salvation, Minister Simmons accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and was Baptized at the age of 12 under the leadership of the Late Anaias Williams. Under Pastor William’s ministry at Mt. Airy Missionary Baptist Church, Jamesburg, New Jersey, Minister Simmons received his foundational Christian training by attending Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, singing in the choir, serving on the Usher Board, and participating in many church activities with gusto and vigor. 

Minister Simmons attended schools in Manalapan where he participated in the Track and Wrestling teams. In 1971, he graduated from Marlboro High School. Enrolling at Trenton State University, Trenton, New Jersey, Minister Simmons was the first family member to attend college.  

A few years later, in 1975, Minister Simmons felt the call to serve his nation in the Marine Corps. He remained there and advanced to the position of Master Sergent. During his time in the Marine Corps, he received several citations of meritorious service in recognition of his diligence in serving as a superior manager and high achiever – learning new technical skills and performing above and beyond under challenging conditions. He was a skilled solider and lived up to the expectations as a Marine until he retired in 1997. 

While serving full-time, Minister Simmons also earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management from National Louis University in March 2000. 

Minister Simmons enjoyed talking on the phone with his Aunt MaryJo Noble without fail every Wednesday, chatting with church before and after services – laughing and encouraging them. When his health permitted, he often went to brunch with his friends, attended outings with his family, whom he loved dearly, and studying the Word of God. Growing up, his family called him Ricky, which progressed to just Rick and then, as an adult, Vernon, dad, “unc,” and “cuz.” 

Minister Simmons is now seated in the heavenly, with his brother Bishop Elzo C. Simmons and sisters Mrs. Juanita Phoenix, Minister Kathryn Simmons Woolfork, and a son Richard Simmons. While his work is over, he leaves to await his reunion with his twin sister, Mrs. Vanessa Ingram (DE); Deacon Lasha L. Simmons (NJ); Rev. Cecil Simmons, Jr.  (Minister Rosanna, DE); Mr. Leon W. Simmons (Kathy, NJ), Mr. Eric Blane Simmons (NJ), Mr. Melvin D. Simmons (NJ) and Bishop Garrett A. Simmons (Alana, NJ); four daughters: Ms. Lawanda Burgess (MD), Ms. Marion Caldwell (VA), Ms. Melissa Simmons (VA); Ms. Kisha Simmons (FL); three aunts and three uncles; fourteen grandchildren; four great grandchildren and a host of cousins, and other relatives that loved him greatly. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.