Russell S. Simmons, 80, a former resident of Valley Bend and Dailey and for the past two years, a resident in the Elkins Rehabilitation and Care Center in Elkins, passed from this life Saturday, February 8, 2014 at the Elkins Rehabilitation and Care Center in Elkins. His health had been declining for the last several years. Russell was born Monday, January 22, 1934 in Belington , a son of the late Conley S. Simmons and Della M. Murphy Simmons. He had never married and was the last surviving member of his immediate family. Left to cherish Russell’s memory are two sisters in law, Wanna Simmons of Dailey who looked after Russell for several years and Betty Simmons of Beach City, OH, two brothers in law, Jack Miller and Robert Petrun of OH, and several cousins, nieces and nephews. Preceding Russell in death besides his parents were three brothers, Lionel, Arley and Jennings, and four sisters, Etheleen, Arlene, Geneva and Evelyn. Russell had attended Tygart Valley High School and graduated from Elkins High School. He retired from Concast Metal Products in Dailey where he was a machinist for many years. Russell was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served in Germany. He was a talented banjo and guitar player and had competed in many contests. He loved playing horseshoes and the WV Mountaineers. Russell was a Methodist by faith. Visitation will be held at the Randolph Funeral home Wednesday, February 12, 2014 from Noon to 1:00PM, the funeral hour. Reverend Randy Long will officiate and interment will follow in the Simmons Cemetery in Valley Head where members of HW Daniels Post #29, American Legion, the Tygart Valley Post #3647, Veterans of Foreign Wars and the WV Honor Guard will conduct full military honors.
