Edward Wayne Simmons

Edward Simmons was born in Lamar County, TX on November 1, 1953, to James and Mary Alice Simmons. He passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, in DeRidder, LA.

He attended Delmar School and joined the Army in 1974. He served his country in Germany and Alaska. His last station was Fort Riley, KS, it was there that he met the love of his life Merlene Phillips Skinner. After he left the service, he and Merlene were married and made their home in DeRidder, LA. He became a dad (big bonus) of four children, which he raised and loved with all of his heart. The girls learned not to be surprised when he gave them a gun for a gift. That was in his eyes the best gift ever. He taught them all how to shoot. He left his son, Lance his massive gun collection, to which Lance responded, "if my dad wants me to have his guns, I will come and get them”. Lance knows this is an honor to receive this collection and have them placed in his care.

Edward loved life and he lived life to the fullest. He did several different jobs in his lifetime, but his calling was being a foreman on construction sites and traveling with his job that became his career.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Merlene, who passed away due to Covid; his parents, James and Mary Alice Simmons; sister, Paula Wagner; brothers-in-law, Pete and Johnny Phillips.

He is survived by his children, Juanita Lambert and David, Lance Skinner and Machelle, Kayla Hunt and John, Robin Sweeney and David; grandchildren, Chase, Anarae, Rachel, Drew, Cody , Alyx, Logan, Candance, Samantha, Carley; twelve great grandchildren and one on the way; six siblings, Peggy Crenshaw and Dale, Brenda Boren and Roger, Barbara "Niesy" Parsons and Kevin, Stanley Simmons and Lisa, Terry Simmons and Geney, Rodger Dale Simmons and Sandra; brother-in-law, Steve Wagner and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Clora Phillips for being Edward's caregiver, chauffeur, cook, T.V. clicker and anything else that was needed. We love you Clora Phillips. They would also like to thank Beauregard Hospice; Home Health nurses, Vicky, Brittany and social workers, Vickey and Toni. Your hands on care, answered phone calls and always being there when needed is very much appreciated.

Edward was the biggest prankster ever and if he scared you, it made his day. His sense of humor will be missed.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 1:00 PM at Myers Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA. Zale Lewis will officiate the service. Pallbearers will be Stanley Simmons, Terry Simmons, Rodger Dale Simmons, David Lambert, Lance Skinner, Roger Boren and Johnny Hunt. Burial will follow the service at Whitaker Cemetery in DeRidder, LA.