Life Story for Douglas William Simmons
Douglas William Simmons, age 81 of Moncks Corner, SC passed away at 5:42 pm on May 3, 2019 in North Charleston – he was a fighter until the end.
Doug was born in Owings Mills, MD on July 22, 1937. The only child of William and Marjorie Simmons (nee Garrish). He graduated from the University of Maryland at College Park and joined the Navy in 1960, graduating from Officers Candidate School in 1961. He served honorably in the Navy for 28 years including a tour in Vietnam. He spent the next decade working for the State of SC Employment division and later volunteered many hours at the South Carolina Aquarium. He loved the ocean, loved gardening and became a Master Gardener and a lifelong learner of everything.
He is preceded in death by his parents and favorite Uncle Fred. He leaves behind his wife and best friend of 48 years, Susan Simmons (Sunshine/Boss), his two daughters – Lorri Carlson and Cara St. Martin (Charlie St. Martin) – his favorite cousins Brian and Mary Garrish and his aunt, Helen Garrish. He also leaves behind his beloved and adoring grandchildren who brought him endless joy and happiness: Jessica Carlson (26), Spencer Gressen (21), Blake Gressen (17), Scott Pearson (17) and Carol Gray Pearson (16). He was and will always be their “Pop.”
We will remember his character, his spirit and his voice! Keep stroking Pop – we will see you on the other side and look for you whenever we see a dolphin.
Graveside service Saturday, May 11, 2019, 10:00am at St. Thomas Cemetery, 232 St Thomas Lane, Owings Mills, MD.
Doug was born in Owings Mills, MD on July 22, 1937. The only child of William and Marjorie Simmons (nee Garrish). He graduated from the University of Maryland at College Park and joined the Navy in 1960, graduating from Officers Candidate School in 1961. He served honorably in the Navy for 28 years including a tour in Vietnam. He spent the next decade working for the State of SC Employment division and later volunteered many hours at the South Carolina Aquarium. He loved the ocean, loved gardening and became a Master Gardener and a lifelong learner of everything.
He is preceded in death by his parents and favorite Uncle Fred. He leaves behind his wife and best friend of 48 years, Susan Simmons (Sunshine/Boss), his two daughters – Lorri Carlson and Cara St. Martin (Charlie St. Martin) – his favorite cousins Brian and Mary Garrish and his aunt, Helen Garrish. He also leaves behind his beloved and adoring grandchildren who brought him endless joy and happiness: Jessica Carlson (26), Spencer Gressen (21), Blake Gressen (17), Scott Pearson (17) and Carol Gray Pearson (16). He was and will always be their “Pop.”
We will remember his character, his spirit and his voice! Keep stroking Pop – we will see you on the other side and look for you whenever we see a dolphin.
Graveside service Saturday, May 11, 2019, 10:00am at St. Thomas Cemetery, 232 St Thomas Lane, Owings Mills, MD.