Ben Simmons, Jr. the second of nine children born on May 18, 1926 to the late Mr. John Simmons and Mrs. Anna Liza Simmons departed this life on Thursday, September 20, 2012. He was raised in Dorchester County in South Carolina. He attended the public schools of Dorchester County.

Ben was a man of love and integrity. He believed in the scripture John 3:16, "God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosever believeth in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life."

Ben had an extensive work history as a logger, farmer, orange picker, waiter and business owner. He was able to employ eight people.

Ben accepted Christ in his life at an early age. He was a faithful member of New Grace United Methodist Church formerly, St. Luke United Methodist Church until his health declined. Ben served on the Deacon Board, Pastor's Aide Board and as a Trustee. He also was a member of Oakville Lodge # 8 in St. George, SC, where he served in many capacities for over forty years.

Ben was joined in holy matrimony to Mrs. Corrie Stevens. This union was blessed with twelve children. Ben and Corrie shared a fulfilled life of love. Corrie affectionately called him Ben, Jr. and he called her Corrie.

Ben was preceded in death by one sister, Johnnie M. Simmons and two brothers, Plent Simmons and Willie (EJ) Simmons.

Ben graciously accepted the laboring for his family and anyone else he could assist and by doing so, he has left a lasting impression on many people.

Those left to cherish beautiful memories of him: his beloved wife of the home, eighteen children, Ben (Regina) Stevens, Jr., Nathaniel Simmons, Annie Lee (Tommy) Dereef, Clarence (Clayrene) Simmons, Carl (Gladys Ele') Simmons, Johnnie C. Simmons, Carolyn Butler, Dianna (Percy) Jackson, Gloria Mae (Anthony) Myers, Lettie Ann (Nathaniel) Williams, Leaudra (Dianna) Simmons, Wendell Simmons, Benji (Tineka) Rump, Mickey (Tashima) Rump, Joseph Reeves, Clay (Nicole) Kelly, Keith Brown, and Santini Fitzpatrick; adopted children, Issac and Peaches Mays, Ralph and Susan Reeves and Ashley Ravenell; five brothers, Herbert Simmons, Leroy (Annie Mae) Simmons, Allen (Marie) Simmons, Joseph (Marie) Simmons and Adolph Simmons; two sisters-in-law, Hattie Q. Stevens and Mary B. Simmons; fifty eight grandchildren; thirty six great grand children; one great great grandchild and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.