"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul; He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; Thou anointed my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." – Psalm 23

Dan Alvin Simmons, a devoted father and grandfather, a remarkable and loving brother and a steadfast uncle, departed this earth and went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, February 14, 2024.  He was the youngest boy of eight children. On his final days at the Brandon Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, he was surrounded by his friends and family who he adored more than anything else in the world.

Dan was born March 20, 1952, to James Briggs Simmons and Carrie Simmons. At an early age, he joined G. Grove Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late D.B. Barnes. As a teen, he loved spending time with his childhood friends and going fishing at the creek with his dad when time allowed.

Dan was educated in Simpson County and attended Harper Vocational High School, graduating with the Class of 1969. While at Harper Vocational High School, Dan was a dedicated member of the marching band where he played drums, and was a member of the school choir.

Dan worked for more than 25 combined years with Tyson Foods, Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. and the Rankin County Hospital. Upon his retirement, he enjoyed relaxing with his family and friends. On Sundays, you would unequivocally find him at home eating his greens and neckbones, and cheering enthusiastically for his favorite football team, the New Orleans Saints.

Dan possessed an extraordinary ability to connect with people. He had a magnetic personality that instantly made everyone feel welcomed. Never known for being shy or reserved, Dan radiated joy and laughter wherever he went. His vivacious spirit inspired those around him and brought immeasurable happiness to many. While living at the Brandon Nursing Home, Dan was so popular that they gave him the position of "hall monitor" to ensure the residents were moving appropriately through the building. He was proud to serve in this position and treated it with respect. If you did not know any better, you would think Dan ran the place.

Dan was preceded in death by his father and mother; his brother, James Briggs Simmons, II; and sisters, Jessie Mae McDonald, Louise Reeves, Georgia B. Simmons, and Maxine Jones.

Dan leaves to mourn his passing: his wife, Jewel Parrott of Mendenhall, Mississippi; daughter, Kristen Davis (Landen) of Magee, Mississippi; grandsons, Lionel Davis, Jr., and Lionel Davis, III; sisters, Jennie Craft of Wilmington, North Carolina and Rachel Vaughn of St. Martinville, Louisana; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.