Phillip Brian Simmons

Obituary of Phillip Simmons Phillip Brian Simmons, 46, of Center Hill, Florida passed away on Friday, May 20, 2016 at Gainesville, Florida. He played baseball beginning at age five and continued playing baseball and football throughout high school. He played baseball for Central Florida College and the University of Tampa as a pitcher. Brian was the District 6 Dixie Boys Baseball director and he coached baseball, football, and weightlifting for over 25 years in Sumter County. He enjoyed fishing, weightlifting, and especially loved coaching youth of all ages in Sumter County. He had a passion for mentoring and giving back to the community. Brian was the first Game Leader of AWANA's at First Baptist Church of Bushnell. He loved participating in activities that his children were involved in and encouraged them in everything they were passionate about. He was the most wonderful husband, father, son, and friend anyone could ask for. His children were his pride and joy and he will live on through them. Brian is survived by his wife of 24 years, Melissa Simmons, of Center Hill, FL, sons: Cody Simmons (Cindy), of Bushnell, FL, Clay Simmons, of Center Hill, FL, and Caleb Simmons, of Center Hill, FL; daughter, Brianne Simmons, of Center Hill, FL; parents, James "Guy" Simmons and Lois Simmons, of Bushnell, FL; mother and father-in-law, Teresa and Greg Stewart, of Williston, FL; brother, Mike (Vicki) Simmons, of Ashburn, GA; maternal grandfather, William "Billy" Ward, of Williston, FL; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Marianne Norton (Todd), of Ocala, FL, and Mallory Buchyn (Phil), of McIntosh, FL; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins and a large extended family. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Bernice Simmons Cundiff; paternal grandparents, Guy Simmons and Lois Katherine Carter; aunt, Linda James; and cousin, Shelley James. Visitation and Service A time of Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 28, 2016 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church Bushnell. Services will be held on Saturday, May 28, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church Bushnell with Pastor Casey Ferguson presiding. Interment to follow at Center Hill Cemetery. In Lieu of In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Coach Brian Simmons Scholarship Fund. Please contact Cody Simmons for information regarding donation at (352) 303-5977.