Jack L. Simmons

Jack L. Simmons, 84, of Port Charlotte, Florida passed away Tuesday, September 15, 2020, at his home. He was born May 23, 1936, in Oakland City, Indiana to Arthur and Marie (Henson)Simmons. He graduated from Oakland City High School in 1954.   He enlisted in the United States Army in 1954 and served for 3 years. He is a graduate of Oakland City University in 1960. He earned a Masters of Science in Industrial Education in 1964. He taught high school in Elberfeld, Indiana, Central High School in Evansville Indiana, and retired from East Gibson School Corporation with 31 years of service.   In 1973 the United States Army became all-voluntary and former members with civilian acquired skills were highly sought. Jack possessed those skills necessary to build maintenance units and he was offered the unprecedented entry into the U. S. Army Reserves as Sergeant First Class. Not content to remain in the enlisted ranks, Jack soon applied for and was selected to become a Warrant Officer. He became a mainstay in his unit, the go-to-guy for all things mechanical. Highly respected by junior and senior alike he developed training programs that made soldiers proficient and that led to a unit of excellence during a time when other units were declining proficiency. As a citizen soldier, Jack's presence not only affected his immediate unit but, because of the soldiers he trained who have gone on to higher headquarters around the world he influenced the entire United States Army. After more than 31 years, Jack retired as Chief Warrant Officer.   Mr. Simmons was a member of the First General Baptist Church in Oakland City since 1948. He is a member of the American Legion in Florida, MOAB, Military Officers Association, Blue Gill Club in Oakland City, Indiana, National Education, Florida Blind Veterans Association, National Blind Association.   He is survived by wife, Sharon Simmons of Port Charlotte, Florida; daughter, Michelle (Rock)Clouser of Mount Juliet, Tennessee; grandson, Coda Clouser of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; brother, Larry(Karen)Simmons of Murray, Kentucky; several nieces and nephews.   He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Rae Couts; sister, Marcia Brewer.   Graveside service will be held at the National Cemetery in Sarasota, Florida, on Monday, October 5, 2020, at 10:30 am, officiated by the Rev. Joey Brummett. Johnson-Taylor Funeral Home and Cremation in Punta Gorda, Florida has been entrusted with arrangements.