Robert Lee Simmons

Robert Lee Simmons, a devoted servant, beloved entrepreneur, and cherished community figure, peacefully passed away on March 20, 2026 at the age of 70. Born on September 23, 1955 to the late Fred Simmons and Louise Simmons, Robert’s life was a testament to unwavering dedication, resilience, and heartfelt service to the people around him.

A proud graduate of Selma High School in 1973, Robert pursued higher education at Selma University, where he earned his degree in Psychology and Ministry. He confessed Christ as his savior at Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church under Pastor John L. Ward and was an associate minister at New Cedar Grove Missionary Baptist Church under Pastor Dan M. Moore. His commitment to faith and community spirit shone brightest as he preached for 21 years, faithfully serving as the pastor of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church for 12 years—a role he held with great pride and unwavering devotion until the very end. He was also affiliated with Bethany Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

Robert proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy as a skilled helicopter mechanic, exemplifying duty and honor at every turn right out of high school. Before dedicating over 50 years to buying and selling cars, a craft he perfected starting in California and later bringing his expertise to Selma with the establishment of Simmons Used Cars in 1981, he spent a decade as a courageous firefighter in Selma. His spirit of service extended beyond the firehouse; Alongside these ventures, he also explored his creative talents through music production and operated a restaurant, always putting his heart into every endeavor he embraced. Robert's diverse career journey was marked by passion and entrepreneurial zeal.

Known for his straightforward and genuine nature, Robert was a salesman at heart — a true people person who connected deeply with everyone he met. His honesty and authenticity were qualities that endeared him to many, leaving a lasting impact on friends, customers, and congregation members alike. Ever the thrifty soul, Robert cherished thrifting, always on the lookout for a deal, often reselling treasures he found with the keen eye of a seasoned entrepreneur.

At the core of Robert's legacy is the profound influence he had on his family. He instilled in his children and grandchildren the values of hard work, perseverance, and integrity, lessons that will carry his spirit forward for generations.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Cerseal Johnson ; son, Anthony Dixon and sisters, Glenda Louise Simmons and Essie Jacobs.

He is survived by his wife 20 years, Angelita Moore Simmons; children, Robert Dewayne (Cheryl) Peterson, Marcus Latrell Simmons, Fredrick Lee Simmons, Sophia L. (Damian) Ross, Teasha Simmons, Darius Marquis Walker and Angel J. Simmons; grandchildren, Daija Peterson, Jazmyn Harris, Shemiah (Terry) Lucas, Keunshae Peterson, Joshua Peterson, Brianna Davis, Caleb Peterson, Eden Peterson, KeMarcus Simmons, Sierra Thomas, Helima Lofland, KaMarkus Carmichael, Frederick Simmons, Quandarius Williams, KeDorian Towns, Dustin Harris, Cameron Bartail, Amaya Simmons, Karson Simmons, Kevin “KJ”, Bradon Simmons, Jakiya Simmons, Legion Crusoe, Martelli Walker, Damian Ross, Jr., Damon Ross, Latavia Keith, Tristan Simmons, Rylan Simmons, Genesis Simmons, Shamiral Smith, Darius Walker, Jr., Dalaysia Walker, Adonis King, Marquan Dixon, Destiny Dixon, Jeff’Stavia Harris and Jeffrey Harris a host of great-grandchildren; siblings, Percy (Deamie) Wright, Jimmie (Bernice) Coleman, Fred (Ruth) Simmons, Wilbur Simmons and Lyndon Simmons and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be Friday, March 27, 2026 at Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home in Selma from 6:00-8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Ellwood Community Church with Pastor Jimmy Coleman officiating. Interment will follow at Good Hope Baptist Church in Sardis.

Pallbearers and flower-bearers will be his sons and grandsons.

Though Robert Lee Simmons has departed from this world, the echoes of his kindness, faith, and industrious spirit remain firmly rooted in the hearts of all who knew him. His journey reminds us that a life dedicated to service, love, and honest work is a life truly well-lived. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for the remarkable man he was—steady, sincere, and forever inspiring.