Jeffrey M. "Jeff" Simmons' Obituary
Jeffrey M. Simmons, age 70, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 11, 1954, to Wilbur “Bill” Simmons and Percila Wert in Fayetteville, North Carolina at Fort Bragg. Soon after, the family made their way to West Michigan, which Jeff called home most of his life. He graduated from Reeths-Puffer High School class of 1972. After graduation, he went on to serve his country in the U.S. Navy for 16.5 years and continued to serve in the Army National Guard for 5.5 years, where he retired from as a proud 22-year veteran. He dedicated numerous years to working as a TSA agent before retiring. On December 12, 1993, he married Tanya Rensberger in Nappanee, IN. Together they cherished 26 years of marriage and were blessed with two beautiful children. Tanya preceded him in death on November 4, 2018. Jeff found love again on August 24, 2019, when he married Robin Sherwood in Muskegon, MI in the backyard of their home. Together they cherished numerous years full of love, laughter and adventure. He was an expert in raising rabbits, which was a hobby he cherished for many years. Jeff earned numerous awards and certificates over the years for his rabbit showings. Jeff had many passions during his life, operating his HAM radio was one he had for many years. He was also an outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, camping smoking meats and having family and friends over for a BBQ. Camping was something he and Robin shared together, making their way from the winters of Michigan to the sunshine in Texas! Above all, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Jeff will be remembered for his loving-spirit, determination, and prized beard. He will be missed greatly by the many who got to know and love him. He is survived by his loving wife, Robin Simmons; daughter, Michaela (Benjamin) Gregoire; son, David Rensberger; two grandchildren, Aiden Michael and Issac David, with a baby boy on the way; four brothers, Mark Simmons, Steve (Judy) Simmons, Kendal Simmons and Jerry Wert; sister, Teresa (Shelly) Schooley; stepchildren, Jessica Kidder and Joseph Carpenter; step grandchildren, Miles, Liam, Hudson and Connor; brother-in-law, Robert Waite; and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Bill (Hermina) Simmons; mother, Percila Wert; three brothers, David Simmons, Steven Wert and Dean Simmons; and sister, Marie Waite. A Celebration of Life for Jeff will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Discovering Christ Church, 2330 Holton Rd., Muskegon, MI 49445. A visitation with the family will be held one-hour prior. Memorial Contributions in Jeff’s honor can be directed to Robin to assist with the funeral cost since he had no life insurance or to the Muskegon County 4-H Foundation. Arrangements entrusted to The Walburn Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon, MI 49441. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Jeffrey?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jeffrey?
Share a story where Jeffrey's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jeffrey you’ll never forget.
How did Jeffrey make you smile?