James Leonard "PeeWee" Simons

McMinnville resident James Leonard "PeeWee" Simons, age 83, was born April 4, 1941 and died February 15, 2025 at his residence.  

James was born in McMinnville, TN to Floyd and Pearl Armstrong Simons. He was married February 14, 1962 to Shirley Yvonne Burtrum Simons who preceded him in death January 29, 2022.  He has now gone to join his soulmate in Heaven.  He was a man who loved the Lord and his family above all.   In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by son, James Floyd “Jim” Simons; brother, Gary Simons and two sisters, Marie Bradford and Eva Davis.

James owned and operated James Simons Construction until he retired from the trade.  Outside of providing for his family, he very much enjoyed spending time with those he loved. From gliding down the lake on his pontoon boat loaded with his family, to pulling some of the most unforgettable jokes/pranks, there was never a dull moment with him around.

"PeeWee" is survived by two sons, Michael (Diana) Simons of Sparta, TN and Kevin Simons (Anna Gerstenschlager) of Rock Island, TN; daughter, Dana (Jansen) Odineal of the Smartt Station Community; daughter-in-law, Kimberly Simons of McMinnville; grandchildren, Christopher (Erika) Simons, Jennifer Ratcliffe (Kyle), Kara Simons, Sierra Simons, Jamie Simons (Jasper Myers), Jaidence Simons, Tristin Simons, Haley Simons, Gavin Simons, Ayden Odineal, Jakoby Odineal and Camdyn Odineal; great-grandchildren, Linley Lawhorn, Mary Beth Simons, Amelia Simons, Gage Ratcliffe, Luke Ratcliffe, Aurora Ratcliffe, Levi Turner, Eliza Turner, Gunner Myers, Gracelyn Myers, Myla Myers and Ophelia Ann Elam;  brother, David (Pat) Simons of McMinnville; sister, Nancy Watson of the Smartt Station Community and several nieces and nephews.

Per his wishes, Mr. Simons will be cremated.  The family will hold private services at a later date.

Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home and High's Cremations, Inc. are in charge of arrangements.