Homegoing services were recently held for late pediatrician and businessmen Dr. Charles Simmons.

The Jacksonville native leaves behind a legacy of love, service, leadership, and compassion that will continue to echo through generations. He was the beloved son of Afro-American Life Insurance executive the late Charles E. Simmons, Jr. and Jolita Simmons. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Jolita Simmons Johnson.

Dr. Simmons was educated in Jacksonville, Florida, attending Darnell-Cookman Jr. High and later Bishop Kenny Catholic School, where he graduated in 1969. He continued his academic journey at Howard University, where he was a member of the swimming team, and later earned his degree from Howard University College of Medicine in 1977. He went on to serve his community faithfully as a pediatrician for 42 years, touching countless lives through his professional excellence. He was also  a former acting physician for the Police Athletic League and other organizations, generously of his time and talents to uplift youth and strengthen the community.   From an early age, Dr. Simmons distinguished himself as a leader. He was an Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America and a proud member of the Order of the Arrow. He was also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the National Guardsman, Inc., the FlaJax Club, and Sigma Pi Phi, Fraternity. Inc.

He leaves to mourn his devoted wife, Sheryll Y. Simmons among a host of family members.