Leon Simons

Leon Simons, 90, died Jan. 18, 2023.

Services were Monday, Jan. 23, at Riley Funeral Home with burial in Cranfills Gap Cemetery.

Leon and his twin brother Leo were born Jan. 8, 1933, to Eli Dexter and Eva Evaline Simons in Gary, Oklahoma.

The family later moved into the Texas region working cotton fields across many rural towns. The Simonses, with their 12 children, eventually settled in Peacock, where Leon met his beautiful young bride, Leona Roberts. They married Nov. 30, 1955.

Leon was a hard worker, having a hand as a cotton picker, cedar chopper and truck driver, finally retiring from Travis County as lead mechanic. His family recalls Leon as a kind and caring friend to all with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. He had a child-like spirit and was often found with his grandkids and great-grandkids building tree houses, playing yard games or pulling pranks. The family holds onto many humorous stories and fond memories.

Leon and Leona filled their 67-year marriage with five children, 13 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

Leon is preceded in death by his son, Hank Lee Simons;, daughter Reba Burnett Roese, granddaughter Jennifer Marie Simons; great-grandson Wesley Everett Windham; eight siblings, JD, WB, Julie, Leo, Elsie, Betty Jo, William and Larry; and his parents, Eli and Eva.

He is survived by his loving wife Leona; sisters Joann, Bobbie and Dora; daughters Joyce Windham and husband Bennie, Judy Jarrell and husband Robert and Dorine Ferrill and her husband Keith; daughter-in-law Linda Ranney; son-in-law David Roese; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he lovingly referred to as “His Fleas.”

RILEY FUNERAL HOME