Merlin Simmons Jr.

On July 13, 1945. a precious baby boy was born to Ora B. Simmons and Merlin Simmons Sr. in Hallettsville, Tx., whom they named Merlin Simmons, Jr.

Merlin and his mother moved to El Campo to live with his grandparents Rollins and Orilia Koontz. With the love, guidance, and nurturing of his grandparents. Merlin accepted christ at an early age where he attended Mount Olive Baptist Church. Merlin attended and graduated from E.A. Greer High School in 1964. While attending E.A Greer High School Merlin excelled in sports; ran track, was the starting quarterback for the football team, and played guard for the basketball team.

Upon graduation Merlin enlisted in the U.S Army in 1965. His duty station was in Fort Bend, Maryland as a clerk typist. He was honorable discharged in 1967. In, 1970, Merlin moved to Kingsville where he stated his journey with Missouri Pacific Railroad. He worked on the Railroad until 1989. Unfortunately his career ended due to an accident on the railroad.

On May 18, 1974 he married his loving wife Rita Watson and to this union three sons were born Merlin III, John Rollin, and Spencer Alan. Merlin's compassion and dedication to the Veterans of his community felt it was necessary to honor those who sacrificed and dedicated their lives to our country. Merlin dedicated his time and efforts Veterans ensuring that they safely arrived on time to their medical appointments on a daily basis.

Merlin was known for his community activities with the youth AAU Tack, Pop Warner Football, Softball, and Basketball. In 1987 Merlin coach the Men's Basketball team (sponsors by Kleberg Bank). The team finished 2nd in a tournament in Harlingen, Texas. Merlin was the pitmaster when it came to his barbecue!

He was preceded in death by daughter Alicia Simmons, father Merlin Simmons, Sr. mother Ora B. Hoyt, brother Robert Simmons.

At the age of 80 years, he leaves a legacy of love throught the lives of those who will forever hold him dear to their hearts, his Loving and devoted wife of 51 years Rita Watson Simmons, Loving daughter Marilyn Simmons, Cheri (Reggie) Meyers, Loving sons Marion(Melissa) Menifee, Merlin III (Walaa) Simmons, John Simmons, and Spencer Simmons. Sisters, Veralee Henderson, Joyce Green, Linda (Bobby) Davis, Brother Arthur Simmons. Fifteen grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Though Merlin is no longer with us, his spirit liveson through the love we shared, the memories we will continue to cherish, and the lessons he taught us.