Granville Ray Simmons, 82, of Rockingham, passed away Aug. 11, 2025, at The Lodge of Rocky Mount surrounded by his loving family.
Ray is a son of the late Nathan and Ruth Simmons, born Jan. 30, 1943.
Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Janice Russell Simmons; son Granville Ray Simmons Jr.; and siblings Ronnie Simmons, Paulette Webb, David Simmons and Julia Currie.
Ray retired from Clark Equipment Company as a unit manager. He loved music and played in a country music band with his wife Janice known as “Southern Express.” In his spare time, he loved to work on cars and was a member of a bowling and softball team. Ray absolutely loved his family and was always willing to help others. He is a man that will be missed dearly.
Ray is survived by his children Alicia Simmons Norton (Frank), of Rocky Mount, Nathan Allen Simmons (Trena) of Raleigh, and Jesse Carol Simmons (Brittany) of Rockingham; grandchildren Nathan Allen Simmons Jr. and Mason Ray Simmons; and step-grandchildren Trent Bullard, Trevor Bullard and Madison Bullard.
The family will have a private burial at Green Lake United Methodist Church Cemetery.
Memorial donations can be made to either the Green Lake Cemetery Fund or to Ledbetter United Methodist Church.
Online condolences can be made at watson-kingfuneralhome.com. Watson-King Funeral Home in Rockingham is assisting the Simmons family.
