Ralph Simmons

Ralph Simmons, 94, passed away peacefully at Southampton Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center on Saturday, April 18, 2026. He was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Taylor Simmons Brooks; father, Charles Joseph Simmons, Sr.; and brother, Charles Joseph Simmons, Jr.

Ralph was born on July 9, 1931, in the Bronx, New York, and was educated in the New York City public school system. After graduating from high school, he worked different jobs until he was hired by the Mobil Oil Corporation (currently known as ExxonMobil). Ralph lived in Mount Vernon, New York, for many years until he later relocated to Newport News, Virginia. After twenty-five years, Ralph retired from the Mobil Oil Corporation where he had worked in several positions including as an 18-wheeler truck driver.

An entrepreneur at heart, Ralph was always interested in small business ownership and previously owned and operated a laundry mat and bar business among others over the years. Ralph loved owning and driving Cadillac cars. He often listened to rhythm and blues and jazz music, especially the late legendary Aretha Franklin who was one of his favorite R&B artists. While living in Newport News, Ralph became a member of the Newport News Warwick Lyons Club where he was able to stay active in the community and develop new friendships. He also worked part-time at Riverside Regional Medical Center and as security personnel in his townhouse community both located in Newport News.

Ralph is survived by his three children, Kurt L. (Linda) Simmons of Scottsdale, Arizona, Lorna R. (John) Simms of Delray Beach, Florida, and Ashley Nicole Simmons of Northern Virginia; four grandchildren, Rachel Simmons, Jessica Simmons, Justin Simms, and Brandon Simms; sister, Vivian Jackson of Jackson, Michigan; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; former spouses, Yvonne H. Simmons of Mount Vernon, New York, the late Mary Lou Smith, and Iris Simmons of Virginia; and a host of other relatives and friends.