Terry W. Simons, 70, of Rochester, passed away on Tuesday, July 3, 2018 at his residence.

Terry W. Simons

In Peru, on Oct. 19, 1947, Terry William Simons was born the second son of John William and Thora Louise Bagwell Simons. His family moved from Peru to a dairy farm south of Rochester. Terry grew up with his big brother Ronnie on the farm now known as the Maurice Horn Farm. It was here, where his work ethic was developed working with the cattle and helping with the daily chores and dairy operation. With great Zebra pride he graduated from Rochester High School with the class of 1965.

When patriotism beckoned, Simons answered the call serving with the United States Air Force. His first stint of service lasted for four years. He re-enlisted with the Air Force reserves for an additional three years and nine months. Simons was honorably discharged attaining the rank of Sergeant.

With a strong work ethic, Simons was a heavy machine operator for the McMahan-O’Connor Construction Company. In his younger adult years he was a member of the Rochester Jaycees.

As an American outdoors man, Simons loved to go fishing. A favorite fishing destination was in Arkansas where he caught the limit of rainbow trout on many occasions. A big baseball fan, he loved all levels including Little League. Autumn brought on football season, Simons was a huge fan of “DaBears” from Chicago. An avid reader, he was the proud owner of books authored by Louis L’Amour many of them about westerns.

Left to cherish Simons’s memories are two daughters: Jami Simons Brewer, and husband David of Pigeon Forge, and Terrah La Shay Simons Sparks and husband Roger of Vincennes; two sons: Matthew Scott Simons and Shane William Simons; his grandchildren: Kaidance Sparks, Brailey Sparks, Tanner Sparks, Lindsey Sparks; a special sister-in-law, Sharon A. Simons all of Rochester; nieces and nephews: Heath and Brittany Simons; great nieces and nephews: Kirsten Simons and companion Eric Root, Mikyla Dayle Simons, Broderyck J. Simons, Ryder Matthew Simons: two sisters: Janet Flinn and husband Michael of Logansport, and Jean Hudson and husband Terry of Solisberry; and a brother John Goodrich and wife Janie of Logansport.

Preceding him in death are his parents Charlie and Thora Louise Bagwell Goodrich, and brother Ronnie Simons on Aug. 6, 2015.

The family requests casual and comfortable attire when coming for visitation and celebration o fSimons’s life. Pastor Matt Anderson will officiate services. Military rites will be conducted by the Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard and the US Air Force Honors Team. Interment will be in the Crooked Creek Cemetery, near Royal Center.