Gerald L. Simmons Sr.

It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt love that we announce the passing of our beloved Gerald L. Simmons Sr., who departed this life on Monday, September 29, 2025, at Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center in Williamsburg, Virginia. He was 82 years old.

Gerald was born on April 12, 1943, in Trenton, New Jersey, to Gladys Daniels. He spent his early years in the Bronx, New York, and later graduated from Amityville Memorial High School in Long Island. A gifted athlete, Gerald excelled in basketball, soccer, and track. He earned a medal in a statewide mile race and was one of only two students from Amityville—alongside future NFL draftee John Niland—selected to compete upstate.

During his school years, Gerald met the love of his life, Saundra Collins. They married on August 5, 1961, and shared 64 beautiful years together. From this blessed union came four children and the fostering of three others: Jerry Jr. (Lisa P), Angela “Whitey”, Monica, and Julian (Lisa M).

Gerald was a man of many talents and passions. A self-proclaimed grill master, he coached youth soccer, played in adult softball leagues, and was an exceptional handball player. Even in his 50s, he played in a men’s 30+ soccer league alongside his nephew and youngest son. His love for music spanned decades, beginning in the early 1960s, and he served as a soundman for various local bands on Long Island. He especially cherished the music of James Brown.

Professionally, Gerald was highly skilled and respected. He began his career as a riveter at Grumman Aircraft before finding his calling with the telephone company known as “Ma Bell,” which later became NYNEX, NY Telephone, and Verizon. He dedicated 28 years to the company before retiring. In recent years, he worked with pride and commitment as the yardman for Extra Mile Landscapes for over eight years.

Gerald was also a devoted public servant, volunteering for many years as a firefighter, EMT, and Captain of Rescue for the North Amityville Fire Company (NAFCO). He was proud of his Montaukett Indian heritage and carried the name “Red Hawk.” Known for his vibrant personality and sense of humor, Gerald was affectionately called by many nicknames including Phone Man, Tarzan, Amigo, G-Money, Preacher, and Skippy—a name earned from a humorous mix-up involving dog food. He was known for giving everyone he met a nickname and was never at a loss for words.

Gerald leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Saundra Simmons; his children, Jerry (Lisa P), Angela, Monica, and Julian (Lisa M); his brother-in-law Andre Collins (Felicia); sister-in-law Zelda Collins; aunt Peggy (Sony); goddaughter Donnis Collins; grandchildren, Melisa Burton, Alex Burton, Chad Simmons, Vanessa Simmons, Meah Simmons, and Kayla Simmons; great-grandchildren, Lailah, Luna, and Phoenyx; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Gerald L. Simmons will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his dedication to his community, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial service to celebrate Gerald's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Whiting's Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests acts of kindness be extended to those who bear quiet burdens with grace.

Professional services have been entrusted to the staff of Whiting's Funeral Home, 7005 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185. 757-229-3011 whitingsfuneralhome.com

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