By Jim Meridith
Posted: Updated:
8 Comments
  • Visitation

    A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.

  • Service

    A burial service for family and close friends will be held at Marine City Cemetery.

  • Full Obituary

    Darren R. Simmons, 47, life-long Madison County resident, died unexpectedly on Thursday, January 14, 2021.

    He was born in Granite City to Howard and Roberta Simmons.

    Darren worked as a plan engineer for AT&T, where he was employed for over 20 years.

    Darren and his wife shared a loving marriage for 21 years. Darren’s biggest accomplishment was being by his daughter’s side as he watched her become an independent and successful adult. Darren had an infectious smile, which will be missed by all who knew him. He enjoyed golf, spending time at the beach and the neighborhood pool. Darren spent much of his time outside: working on the lawn, washing cars, and hanging out in the garage watching Cardinals and Blues games as well as NASCAR. A talented musician, Darren’s love for music began when he was given a drum set at the age of 5 and remained an important part of his life. As an adult, he was a member of Vinnie and the Orphans, Rough Grooved
    Surface, and the Jack Cass Trio.

    Darren is survived by his wife, Kristie; daughter, Allie; mother, Roberta Simmons; siblings, Linda (Vernon) Uhe, Kelly (Kent) Frey; Dennis (Karen) Simmons; and Daniel Simmons; along with many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins.

    He was preceded in death by his father, Howard Simmons; nephew, Tad Simmons; and his grandparents.

    In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Operation Support Our Troops – America.

    A burial service for family and close friends will be held at Marine City Cemetery.

    A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.

    Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL.

Condolences are reviewed and published within 24 hours.

8 Condolences
 
  1. MIchael Dehler / January 22, 2021 at 5:56 pm

    Darren, it breaks my heart that I didn’t take the time and make the effort to stay in touch after high school. As much as I regret that now, I will never forget the great times we shared. I am so sorry for your family. You were a wonderful, immensely talented, kind, gentle, generous, and hilariously funny friend. I miss you terribly and I love you.

    Ike

  2. Bob & Beckie Schrumpf / January 23, 2021 at 7:05 pm

    Sympathy & prayers are sincerely sent to his family.

  3. Jill Jung / January 24, 2021 at 6:50 pm

    Darren, it has been a number of years since I last caught up with you, but I will never forget all of the wonderful memories of hanging out with you and all of our friends throughout our high school years. You were always one of the kindest and friendliest people I knew. My prayers and love go out to your family. Jill (Greenfield) Jung

  4. Elizabeth pope / January 24, 2021 at 10:47 pm

    Darren, I can’t believe I won’t see you tailgating for the Cards home opener, talking about trucks, camping, old cars, drinking beer, and whatever else. 🙂 You are one of the easiest people to talk to and one of the best people ever. You are so fun and just an awesome person and I hope you knew that. I’m so sorry Kristie and Allie. My sincerest condolences to both of you, your family, and all Darren’s friends. I am so happy to have known Darren and I know he will be greatly missed.

    Beth

  5. Michael S Otto / January 25, 2021 at 4:57 am

    Simmons Family

    I am sad to hear this news. It’s such a shock to loose someone so young.
    My sympathy and prayers to your family.
    Mike and Mia Otto

  6. Diane Willis / January 26, 2021 at 4:40 pm

    Sorry to hear about Darren’s passing. I didn’t know him well, but I was an engineering assistant (drafter) and drew outside plant prints for him. He was always kind, respectful and polite everytime we communicated by phone or email. My sincere condolences to his family on a life cut too short.

  7. Maxine Callies / January 26, 2021 at 10:35 pm

    Darren, you left us much too soon. I remember your squeaky tricycle in the early morning hours at the campground. Jerry always called you the “ukly duck”. You were a joy to all of us because you were so much younger than all the other kids. My heart breaks for Kristie and Allie. Bert, Linda, Kelly, Danny, and Denny and families, my heart is broken for you, too. There is nothing worse than losing a child and a sibling. My love and sympathy are with you. May God, and the strength and love you hold as a family, help bring you through this tragedy. You remain in my thoughts and prayers.

    Love and hugs, Maxine

  8. Jason / August 5, 2021 at 1:32 am

    I got to know Darren through high school football, and the rock band. I still remember the day you and Alan spoke with me about coming to sing, and the numerous jam sessions that followed.

    Another stepping stone in life.

    I’m so sorry to hear this…..

    J

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