James L. "Don" Simmons

James L. “Don” Simmons, age 82 of Cornelia, passed away on Thursday, October 7, 2021. 

Born in Alto, Georgia on August 27, 1939, he was a son of the late William Vasco Simmons and Ora Mae Wade Simmons. Mr. Simmons was the plant manager of Schnadig for 41 years. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Brenda Elaine Pardue Simmons; grandchildren, Casey James Simmons, Kevin Scott Simmons and Kayla Elaine Simmons; brother, William Odis Simmons. 

Surviving are his son, Scott Wade Simmons of Alto; daughters and sons-in-law, Ginger Elaine Swilley (Paul) of Cornelia and Joy Simmons White (Jeff) of Alto; grandchildren, Haley Caroline Irvin (Ethan) and Grason Scott White (Emily); great-grandchildren, John Riggins Irvin, James Everett Irvin, and Benjamin Lee White; brothers, Harold Wayne Simmons of Oakwood and Danny Lee Simmons of Alto; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

James enjoyed being a family man and was a wonderful husband, father, and papa. He loved spending time with his family around the dinner table, taking many trips on the golf cart, and always had a solution for any project big or small. James was a beloved member of Mt. Zion UMC and served his community selflessly. Those that knew James knew a friend. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Mt. Zion U.M.C. in Alto, Georgia at 2 pm on Saturday, October 30, 2021. 

Those in attendance are asked to please adhere to the public health and social distancing guidelines regarding COVID-19. 

An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandstewart.com. 

McGahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.