Paul E. Simmons, 93, of Jacksonville, IL, died Sunday, August 11, 2024, at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital.

He was born June 8, 1931, in rural Manchester, the son of Emory A. and Margaret A. (Rimbey) Simmons. He married Martha B. Brasel, and they later divorced. Paul then married Ellen Allen Elliott, and she survives.

He is also survived by his son, John (Patricia) Simmons of Jacksonville; stepchildren, Vicky Vedder and George Elliott, both of South Jacksonville; grandchildren, Dusty Molohon, Ryan Vedder, and Cody Vedder; three great grandchildren; and half siblings, Larry Simmons of Princeville and Sharon (Gene) Minor of Springfield. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Paul joined the U.S. Navy Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He proudly served his country from 1951 – 1954. Mr. Simmons worked for Illinois Road Contractors for over 45 years and was also an auctioneer for over 30 years. Paul was a member of Centenary United Methodist Church and Whitetails Unlimited for several years. He loved deer hunting, fishing, and mushroom hunting. Paul also enjoyed woodworking and spending time with people.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM Friday, August 16, 2024, at the Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville, with burial at Diamond Grove Cemetery. The family will meet friends from 1:00 – 2:00 prior to the service. Memorial donations are suggested to the Jacksonville Area Food Bank or Toys for Tots, both local organizations. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be left online at buchanancody.com.