Mr. Willie Henry Simms III

June 27, 1937 - August 12, 2017

Mr. Willie Henry Simms, 80, of Peoria, IL peacefully received his wings on Saturday, August 12, 2017 at UnityPoint Health Methodist in Peoria, IL. Willie was born on June 27, 1937 in Memphis, TN to Willie Jr. and Alberta (Rice) Simms. Willie was a Veteran of the US Army. Willie worked for Caterpillar, Inc. retiring in 1999. Willie liked to play golf, watch sports, and was really good on the computer. He loved his family and friends. Willie was a faithful servant of God and a member of Cornerstone Gospel Church. Willie leave to cherish his memories, his wife of over 50 years, Ever Simms; three sons, Terry Simms, Randy Simms, Sean Simms, Sr. all of Peoria; two daughters, Cathy Simms and Cheryl Wright both of Memphis, TN; daughter in law, Kizzie Mabry of Columbia, SC; one sister, Ann Dawson of Memphis, TN; and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Velvet Cranford, one brother, Thomas Simms, two sisters, Dorothy Jean Ambrose, Ruth Deener, one cousin, who was raised like a sister, Gloria Coleman. Funeral services will be held at 11 am, Saturday, August 19, 2017 at Star of Hope Full Gospel Church with a visitation beginning at 10 am. Host Pastor Joseph Johnson and Pastor Frances Kenon of Cornerstone Gospel Church will officiate. Willie will be laid to rest at Parkview Cemetery where US Army Military Honors will be rendered. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made to SimonsMortuary.com.