Emanuel Edward Simms' Obituary
Mr. Emanuel Edward Simms, Jr. was born October 26, 1944 to Minnie Bell Simms
and Emanuel Edward Simms, Sr. in Kinloch, Missouri.
He graduated from Kinloch High School and soon afterward began working for
General Motors Corporation (GM). He later retired from GM after 43 years.
Emanuel was known by several nicknames, as he was affectionately called
“Minnie Bell” by family members, as well as “JR” and “Pork Chop” by his GM
family. He was an avid Saint Louis Cardinals fan and watched the Cardinals play
on television as often as he could. He also enjoyed listening to jazz music and
shopping.
He was a faithful member of Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church and served on
the Deacon Board for many, many years.
After a short battle with illness, Emanuel transitioned from this life on June 9,
2025.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. Simms; wife,
Darlene Lee-Simms; brothers, Raymond, Floyd, Larry, and Terrence Simms; and
sister, Katherine Simms.
Emanuel leaves to cherish his memory: his children ~ Derick Simms, Reginald
Simms, Tracey King, Stacey Simms, Shacona Washington and Kelley Simms;
stepdaughter ~ LaTrenda Everett; stepson ~ Duane Lee; grandchildren ~ Clayton
Simms, Simone Simms, Da’Via Simms, Destinee Simms, Jordan Washington and
Amaya Washington; step grandchildren ~ Briana Everett, Trenden Everett and
Brittany Bostic; two great grandchildren ~ Chloe Simms and Clark Simms; step
great grandchildren ~ Brien Everett, Patrick Everett-Haugen, Jr. and Liberty Bostic;
sister ~ Elizabeth Freeman; sisters-in-law ~ Mamie Simms and Judith Mae Green;
brothers-in-law ~ Wayne L. Smith (Darlene) and Leonard Smith (Kanionette D.);
sister-in-law ~ Bonita Hill (Steven); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and
friends.
What’s your fondest memory of Emanuel?
What’s a lesson you learned from Emanuel?
Share a story where Emanuel's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Emanuel you’ll never forget.
How did Emanuel make you smile?
