William L. Simons

William L. Simons affectionally known as “Baby Joe” was born August 7, 1946, in Eastover S.C., the beloved and first-born son of Richard and Ella Kelly Simons.  He departed this life on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at PRISMA Health Heart Hospital, in Columbia, South Carolina.

William was educated in the Public Schools of Lower Richland County where he was a graduate of Webber High School in the Class of 1964. After high school he was drafted into the United States Army where he served his country faithfully, after which he enlisted in the Army Reserves.  Upon receiving an Honorable Discharge, he was employed with the Seaboard Coastline Railroad from which he retired after many years of faithful service. After retiring, he transitioned to one of his favorite hobbies and became the owner of his own Junk Business, where he displayed his love for cars. Still longing to be a part of the workforce, he then became employed with the Department of Transportation.

Wiliam was united in Holy Matrimony to the former Jeanette Ruff on August 22, 1969, and their union of love was blessed love and devotion to each other, and the births of two sons, Ellis and Kevin.

He joined Antioch AME Zion Church at an early age, serving faithfully along side his family. Though he is no longer physically with us, he has left a legacy of love to all those who loved and knew him.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a sister, Begetia S. Budden.

Those who are cherishing fond and precious memories are his loving wife, Jeanette R. Simons; sons, Ellis Simons and Kevin Simons; siblings, Mildred (Roosevelt) Patterson, Raymond (Ada) Simons, Erby (Gloria) Simons, Ella (Sam) Williams, Earlene (Larry) Scott, Andrew (Charla) Simons, and Linetta (Antwaun) Simons Archie; uncle, Charlie Kelly; brother-in-law, Lester E. Budden; sister-in-law, Zelma Gibbs, a host of nephews, nieces, and other loving relatives and dear friends, all of whom will dearly miss him.

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