On July 14, 2026, our hearts were changed forever. James "Bab" Simmons, Jr. entered into eternal rest.

James Simmons, Jr. was born on June 3, 1952, to the late James and Gertie Simmons. He was the baby boy of his family and was deeply loved from the very beginning. He was raised in Liberty County, where he took great pride in being a product of the Liberty County School System. He especially loved the old Liberty County High School, home of the Tigers.

James excelled as a three-sport athlete, proudly playing football, baseball, and basketball. His athletic accomplishments were later recognized with his induction into the Liberty County High School Hall of Fame, where he was presented with his long-awaited letterman jacket. James was not only known for his athleticism and charismatic personality, but he was also voted "Most Handsome Boy" by the Class of 1972.

After graduating from high school, James experienced a life-changing dream in 1976 that would change the course of his life forever. An angel instructed him to join the United States Army. Believing this was God's direction for his life, he faithfully answered the call. He proudly served his country for 20 years, with duty stations at Fort Campbell, Kentucky; Germany; Korea; and Hunter Army Airfield, where he spent 11 of those 20 years.

James was especially proud of his certification as an Airborne Paratrooper and faithfully served as an 88M Motor Transport Operator, transporting personnel and equipment in support of military operations. His military service reflected his unwavering commitment to duty, discipline, and country.

Following his honorable retirement from the United States Army, James continued the work he loved by becoming the owner and operator of JR Express Trucking, LLC. He spent more than 30 years as a professional truck driver, earning the respect of colleagues and customers alike through his dependability and strong work ethic. At the time of his passing, he was employed with Liberty Transit in Hinesville, Georgia, where he faithfully served for the past year.

On July 17, 1982, James was united in holy matrimony with the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Marsha Simmons. Their love story began years earlier when a young James spotted a beautiful girl wearing a red jumper while he was riding the school bus. From that moment, he knew he wanted to marry her. By the grace of God, that desire became a reality. Their marriage was blessed with three beautiful children: Channing, Chasity, and Charmaine, who became the pride and joy of his life.

James accepted Christ at an early age and began his spiritual journey at Midway Congregational Church, where he worshipped alongside his mother. He later united with Thebes A.M.E. Church with his father before joining St. Peter's A.M.E. Church with his beloved wife. At St. Peter's, he faithfully served on the Trustee Board, the Finance Team, and was a devoted participant in the Men's Bible Study, where he enjoyed thoughtful and spiritual discussions about God's Word. Later in life, James returned to his roots and reunited with Midway Congregational Church, where he remained a faithful member.

James was a man of deep faith, kindness, and generosity. He never met a stranger and believed every person deserved dignity and respect. Whether speaking to a lifelong friend or someone he had just met, he would respectfully address them as "sir" or "ma'am." He found great joy in helping those in need and never hesitated to lend a helping hand. His love for the Lord was evident in both words and actions, and he was never ashamed to share his faith with others.

James leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, humility, and unconditional love that will continue to inspire all who knew him. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that his race has been well run, his faith has remained steadfast, and he is now resting peacefully in the presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories: his beloved wife of 44 years, Marsha Simmons; his children, Channing Williams, Chasity Mack (Charles), and Dr. Charmaine Simmons; his cherished grandchildren, Braylen Williams, Carmen Williams, Chesney Mack, and Chandler Mack; his siblings, Whymon Simmons (Diane), Anthony Simmons, Evelyn Bell (Leroy), Thelma Williams (Arthur), Vernicia Mells (Kenneth), Malinda McIver, and Henrietta Fairley; his sisters-in-law, Vedelle Williams, Jacqueline Myles, Trelley Williams, and Gloria Simmons; his brother-in-law, LeVan Hargrove; his goddaughters, Sydney Grant and Varena Jackson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and dear friends, all of whom will forever treasure the love, wisdom, and kindness he shared.

"His Lord saith unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."— Matthew 25:23 (KJV)