John William Simons III (better known as Jack), age 83, of Paducah, KY passed away Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Holiday Jackson Oaks Apartments. Jack was born in Alton, IL on November 18, 1940, to the late John and Velma (Brayman) Simons.
He met his wife, Barbara Tuck, at Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, TN. They were married on June 23, 1962, in Warren, MI. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary shortly before she passed away on May 16, 2023.
Jack was a Gospel Preacher for over 60 years for many Churches of Christ throughout the USA and also performed mission work in Panama. Known to many as "Toymaster", Jack enjoyed making wooden toys. He ran cross country in high school, enjoyed playing basketball at the YMCA, and was always up for a chess match. As for the outdoors, he loved to go fishing, bird watching, and camping. His love for Westerns influenced his flamboyant suits, large belt buckles, bolo ties, cowboy hats, and boots.
He leaves behind a legacy of six children: Michael (Heather) Simons, Jackie (Kevin) Monahan, Becky (Kevin) Fortner, Mark (Lori) Simons, James (Emily) Simons, and Daniel (Allison) Simons; his younger sister, Joanne Waggener; fourteen grandchildren: Rachel (Allan) Simpson, A.J. (Sarah) Redman, Hannah (Alex) McCorkle, Julia Fortner, Micah (Hope) Simons, Levi Simons, Jacee Simons, Mallori (Dale) Jowers, Mary Monahan, Holly Simons, Rylee Simons, Benjamin Simons, Rosalyn Simons, and Randall Simons; five great-grandchildren; Annistyn Redman, Titus Redman, Avalynn Jowers, Camille Simons, and Ivy Redman.
In addition to his wife and parents, Jack was preceded in death by his eldest son, John David and his granddaughter, Kimberly Fortner.
A Celebration of Jacks Life will be held on November 29, 2024, at Central Church of Christ in Paducah.
Keeling & Goodman Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Simons family.
