Jeffery Scott Simmons

Jeffery Scott Simmons—known simply as Jeff to those who knew him—passed away peacefully at age 56 on August 25, 2025, in Temple, Texas. Born January 1, 1969, in Fresno, California, to Charles Dean Simmons and Christine Pearce, Jeff lived with quiet strength and a steady loyalty to the people he cared about. He showed up when it mattered, never looking for praise—just doing what needed to be done because that’s who he was.

Jeff’s impressive career as a heavy equipment mechanic, began in 1996 after receiving his education from Shasta College in Redding, California. He honed his skills in tool and die machining at Perry Technical Institute in Yakima, Washington. His mechanical talents forged the foundation of a successful family business, Simmons Heavy Equipment Services, proudly launched in 2017.

Jeff’s faith quietly shaped how he lived—grounding his actions and giving him strength, even when life threw its worst at him.

Jeff was a loyal family man, survived by his wife of thirty years, Kathy, whom he met back in their teenage years. Their relationship started young when they were 17 years old and grew stronger with every challenge they faced side by side, building something real and lasting. Together, they raised two great kids—daughter Kaitlyn (and her husband Jimmy Stogiera) and son Brendan. Jeff took pride in being Papa to Maverick, Easton, and Dakota, passing on the same mix of humor, common sense, and strong determination that defined him.

For Jeff, nothing compared to the time spent surrounded by his grandkids, each moment an opportunity to impart a story, a joke, or a life lesson. Jeff never missed an excuse to hop on his motorcycle and clear his head on the open road with his son. Jeff’s interests didn’t stop at the thrill of the ride—he was just as passionate about cooking, especially grilling and smoking meats. He loved experimenting with recipes and recreating dishes just to see how his version stacked up. Firearms were also one of Jeff’s many interests—he liked collecting them, shooting them, and occasionally reminding folks that precision wasn’t just for tools and engines.

Jeff will be remembered for his sharp wit, steady advice, and willingness to help without needing the spotlight. He had a way of making people laugh when they needed it most, offering solid guidance without preaching, and showing up when it counted. He built his life on hard work, straight talk, and the kind of love you don’t have to dress up to recognize—and in doing so, left his mark on everyone lucky enough to know him.

We say goodbye to a man who lived life on his own terms and left a mark on everyone around him. Jeff leaves behind big shoes to fill, and while his absence leaves a space that won’t be easily replaced, his story carries on—in the family he loved, the people he helped, and the memories he leaves behind. Rest easy, Jeff. Your legacy of hard work, humor, and loyalty won’t be forgotten