Richard Charles Simmons, 91, of Hemphill, Texas passed away Friday, June 23, 2023 at Legacies Nursing and Rehab in Hemphill.

Charles was born in LeCompte, Louisiana on October 10, 1931 to Willis Henry Simmons, Sr. and Myra Hilda Henderson Simmons.  He served his country as a member of the United States Army before going on to Lamar University and later Sam Houston State University where he earned his Master's Degree.  He taught school and coached football and basketball for SFA in Port Acres; Kirbyville High School and Hemphill High School before retiring.  After retirement, he continued to substitute teach for Brookeland ISD.

He was a member of First Baptist Church in Hemphill and a loving father and grandfather.  Whenever he had time, he would spend it hunting and fishing.

Charles is survived by his daughters, Cheryl Biehle and husband, Steve, of Montgomery, Texas and Suzanne Simmons of Englewood, Colorado; grandchildren, Julia Peoples and husband, Mike, Monty Peno, and Sloane Ferris and husband, Marshall; and great grandchildren, Layla, Stevie, Cecelia, Nate and Charlotte.

In addition to his parents, Willis and Myra Simmons, he was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Lavella Ruth Simmons; brothers, Rhett Simmons, Bob Simmons and Henry Simmons; and sister, Ruth Woods.

Funeral services will begin at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, June 29, 2023 in Starr Funeral Home, 510 Starr Street, Hemphill, Texas with Julia Peoples officiating.

Visitation will begin one hour prior to service.

Burial will follow services in Yellowpine Cemetery.

Charles' family would like to thank Legacies Nursing Home and Rehab, Hospice in the Pines and Starr Funeral Home for all your care and support.

Memories and condolences may be shared at starrfuneralhome.com.