Forreston

Charles Alvin Simmons, Jr., 84, passed away peacefully Monday, November 4, 2024, at his home in Forreston, IL with his family by his side.  Charles was born on November 30, 1939, in Rochelle, IL to Charles A. and Emma C. (Johnson) Simmons.

Charles enjoyed spending time with his family, gardening, canning and watching western T.V. shows.  He had a dairy farm for seven years.  Charles and his wife, Dori, ran a restaurant. They also owned and operated Simmons Sealcoating for many years.

Charles is survived by the love of his life for 31 years, his wife, Doris; five children: Charles (Emily) Simmons, Teresa Akey, Julie (Jerry) Bramstedt, Marcia (Brett) Wilkens, and Wayne (DeAnne) Clay; brother, Robert Simmons; 11 grandchildren: Stacey Hanson, Brad Akey, Brian Akey, Andy (Erin) Wilkens, Shayla (John) Goodwin, Alex (Sara) Wilkens, Sarah Gonzales, Josiah (Ellen) Penniman, Ben Penniman, Kayla (Rocco) Clay, Richelle Bramstadt and several great grandchildren and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Charles is preceded in death by his sister, Sylvia Simmons; brother, Paul Simmons; son, Jamie Clay; son-in-law, Kevin Penniman and grandson, Daniel Penniman.

The visitation will be from 10:00 - 11:00 A.M., Friday, November 8, 2024, at the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, 400 . 6th St., Rochelle.  The funeral service will follow at 11:00 A.M., Friday at the funeral home with Pastor Joy Alsop officiating.  Burial is at Lawnridge Cemetery in Rochelle.  Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.