Jack Simmons

Jackie “Jack” Simmons, 81, passed away on June 13, 2024, in Lewistown, IL. He was born January 24, 1943, in Canton, IL the son of Jerome and Anna (Ruffatto) Simmons. Jack married Tonette Ann Picton who preceded him in death and later married Billie Taylor on July 25, 1980. She survives.

Jack graduated from Lewistown High School and attended Eureka College where his granddaughter Kyla Simmons would graduate 60 years later. Jack worked at International Harvester for 20 years. Over the next 40 years Jack and Billie owned and operated several businesses within the community, including The Music Station, Main Street Mini Bays, Lewistown Auction Company, Simmons Auto Sales and The Rocket Tap. He also served as a Trustee for Lewistown Township.

Jack was an exceptionally talented musician and singer. He was a member of many bands that were featured regionally for over six decades. Starting in high school with The Rocking Chairs and later with the AJ and the Savages, Spoon River Journeymen, Red Bandana, and Bar Room Buddies. Jack was an accomplished player of the guitar, bass, mandolin, harmonica, drums, fiddle, keyboard, and saxophone. Jack loved country music and bluegrass and cherished his Tuesday night jams at the Rocket. Jack influenced generations of local musicians, many of whom would later join him on the stage.

Jack enjoyed spending time with family and morning coffee with his friends. He loved traveling and setting up a camp site at bluegrass festivals and various music events, continuously ingratiating himself to travelers and locals alike, as Jack never knew a stranger. He had a lifelong passion for riding motorcycles and raced competitively in the 1960’s including a win at Burr Oak National. Jack also enjoyed going to auctions, watching his grandkids sporting events, fishing, and playing golf. When he finally decided to sit down, he enjoyed watching old shows such as Perry Mason, Columbo, Monk and Alfred Hitchcock.

Jack is survived by his sons, Wesley Simmons, Darren Simmons, Trevor Simmons (Lori Howard), Brian (Kari) Simmons, Troy (Nena) Myers,Tod (Shannon) Myers, and daughter Jacquelyn (Mitch) Hilton and daughter-in-law Jill Simmons Martindale. His grandchildren, Lauren (John) Wilcoxen, Jordan (Maggie) Simmons, Cameron Simmons (Payton Rusch), Kyla, Keon and Kason Simmons, and Fiona Hilton. His great grandchildren Kyndall Simmons and Hayley Wilcoxen. He is preceded in death by his parents and one brother and sister-in-law, Jerome (Patricia) Simmons.

Thank you Deb Rodney for bringing us together.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois Cancercare Foundation in Peoria. To view Jack’s life tribute video or to send condolences visit henrylange.com