James Claude Simmons

James Claude “Jim”, “Pap”, “Pap Paw”, “PawPaw Jim” Simmons, 75, of Buchanan, TN, passed quietly home to our Lord on February 9, 2025 after a short illness. He is preceded in death by his parents, James Edward and Lillie “Marie” Simmons; wife, Jeri Simmons; and nephew, Micah Caleb Simmons. Jim is survived by son, Shane (Heather) Pattyson; daughter, Linnea Dotson; sister, Tina (Larry) Simmons; 13 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and a host of beloved extended family and friends.

Jim graduated in the Class of 1968 from Westside High School, Memphis TN. Jim was an accomplished musician as well as a published songwriter whose love for music began at a very young age leading him to play music and write songs with some of music’s great talents as well as forging lifelong cherished friendships and memories.

The Family thanks everyone for their extension of love and support during this difficult time. 

Memorial donations may be made in Jim’s memory to his favorite charity as follows where he was a member of the DreamMakers Club supporting the Lakota children: St. Joseph’s Indian School, P.O. Box 100, Chamberlain, SD 57325 or via their website at stjo.org/flowers

Please visit James' tribute wall and share a memory with the family.