The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (Psalm 18:2 [New King James Version])

Clarence Simmons, Jr., 45, of Saint George, SC transitioned on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at Trident Medical Center.

He was born on February 25, 1973 at MUSC in Charleston, SC to Clarence Simmons, Sr. and Clayrene B. Simmons.

Clarence was always found to be a bright individual. During his childhood, he would take anything apart and rebuild it. Music was his life and made developing mixtapes an art form.  Clarence was the typical boy in that he would be outside every chance he got. An avid sports fan, he enjoyed playing football with his friends and in middle school. Clarence would also perform the latest WWE wrestling moves (many times on his sisters).

At an early age, he joined Saint Luke United Methodist Church, now New Grace.

He resided in Saint George most of his life, was a graduate of Saint George High School (Class of 1991) and attended Benedict College. A bona fide 'Tiger for Life', Clarence considered his time and fellowship with his Benedict College classmates some of the best times of his life.

Following his studies at Benedict College, Clarence was employed by the Public Works Department for the County of Dorchester.

Counselor, guardian, comedian, dancer, and all-around life of the party, Clarence was loved for his ability to bring joy to any situation. He was a devoted father who enjoyed being with his children above all things and worked hard to provide for them. Clarence had an uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way.

He is survived by his parents, his three children:  Kaira Simmons, Shania Simmons, and Clarence Simmons, III; his grandson, Austin Simmons; his sisters, Andrea Maria (Cloyd) Jones and Patrece Simmons; and, wife Mary Kelly-Simmons.

He also leaves behind seven uncles: Ben Stevens, Jr., Nathaniel Simmons, Carl (Gladys Ele') Simmons, Johnnie C. Simmons, Leaundra (Dianna) Simmons, Wendell Simmons; five aunts:  Annie Lee (Tommy) Dereef, Carolyn Butler, Dianna (Percy) Jackson, Gloria (Anthony) Myers, and Lettie Ann (Nathaniel) Williams; and, his very special friend, Taneeka Clinton.

His presence will be missed by a host of beloved nieces, nephew, cousins, extended relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Lawton Bradley, Jr. and Bertha Lee Bradley, and paternal grandparents Ben Simmons, Jr. and Cora Simmons.