Dr. Gary Marc James Simmons

Dr. Gary Marc James Simmons (74) passed away on February 27, 2024 in Tallahassee, Florida where he has called home for nearly 35 years. He was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to parents Frank Kiddoo Simmons and Frances Flynn Simmons on January 8, 1950. He enlisted in the United States Army and reached the rank of Specialist 5 upon his honorable discharge. Gary attended University of Central Florida (B.A. in Psychology), Georgia State University (M.S. in Community Counseling), and University of Southern Mississippi (Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology). After earning his doctorate degree, he became a licensed psychologist. He most recently worked at Florida State Hospital in Chattahoochee, Florida where he undoubtedly impacted countless lives, including his co-worker’s lives and his patient’s lives, through his calling as a psychologist. He dedicated a total of 34 years at the hospital. All that knew Gary will remember him for his sunny disposition, incredible wit and infallible sense of humor. He had the ability to put you at ease in any conversation and even after the first time meeting him, you already felt like an old friend. Even when faced with extreme adversity or illness, Gary’s gift of making any situation humorous remained. When he wasn’t working or spending time with his family, he enjoyed biking, working out, playing the guitar or learning more about the Bible and the Lord. Survivors include his beloved wife, Beverly V. Simmons; children Marc Simmons (Kati) and Rebekah Simmons-Todd (Michael); grandchildren Christina, Hazley and Sebastian; sister, Lori Burbank (Tom). Gary was preceded in passing by his parents as well as his father’s longtime partner, Kathe Krazeise. A memorial service will be held at Gary’s church home, Calvary Chapel, on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 4:00 pm. There will be a potluck style dinner following, so please bring your favorite dish. In lieu of flowers, Beverly is asking for people to donate blood in his honor. He will be privately interred at Tallahassee National Cemetery. Breanna Green of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Tributes

Dr. Gary Marc James Simmons

January 8, 1950 - February 27, 2024