Thomas "Tommy" Dewey Simmons, Jr., 82, of Ivanhoe passed peacefully from his earthly life on Thursday, October 9, 2014 at Pender Memorial Hospital.

He was born September 14, 1932 in Fayetteville, the son of the late Thomas Dewey Simmons, Sr. and Mary Henry Croom Simmons. Also remembered is Tommy's devoted wife, Jewell Franklin Simmons who died May 11, 2014 and his daughter, Audrey Simmons Porter who died in 2008.

Tommy is survived by his sons, Thomas "Skeet" Dewey Simmons III (Pat) of Ivanhoe and Gary Wayne Simmons (Diana) of Hickory; daughters, Teresa Simmons-Collins (Ed) of Holly Ridge and Ginny Lynn Simmons of Wilmington; son-in-law, George Porter of Castle Hayne; grandchildren, Cecilia Langston (Keith), Brandon Simmons, Kristie Porter, James Porter and Nicole Hubler (Andy) and great grandchildren, Haleigh, Hayden, Emily and Landon; and many extended family and friends.

Thomas retired as a First Sergeant after serving honorably for 20 years in the US Army. He served two tours of duty in Korea and one in Vietnam, receiving many medals and commendations through out his military career.

Tommy loved his family and was a devoted husband to his beloved, Jewell and a wonderful daddy, granddaddy and friend. In years past, Jewell and Tommy enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and Canada. After turning 50, Tommy bought a motorcycle that he enjoyed and took long trips on for the next 20 years. Tommy's second love after family was Black River, where prior to his illness Tommy spent countless hours fishing and hunting. Cookouts and family gathering were also rated high on Tommy's list of favorite things. Amongst the legacies Tommy leaves are the importance of God, Family and Country.

Graveside service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 11, 2014 at Moores Creek Baptist Church Cemetery with the Rev. Philip Eakins officiating.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Burgaw.

Graveside service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 11, 2014 at Moores Creek Baptist Church Cemetery with the Rev. Philip Eakins officiating.