Individual Details

Death

HICKORY Dr. Robert Newell Simmons, "Bob," died Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2012, after a courageous battle with cancer spanning more than 10 years. Bob was born in Charlotte, Sept. 29, 1941, the son of Robert Newell and Loma Simmons. After graduating from East Mecklenburg High School, Bob continued his education at Kings College, Western Kentucky University, and Appalachian State University. At Appalachian he met Janice McSwain, whom he married in 1967. In 1986, Bob received his PhD from Colorado State University. Bob spent his professional life in education and was employed by Lenoir-Rhyne University for over 30 years, serving as chairman of the business division for much of that time. He was the local and state advisor of Phi Beta Lambda, a business fraternity, for over 25 years. While he advised the local chapter at Lenoir- Rhyne, it repeatedly won state and national awards. In addition, the college recognized Bob's commitment to the students and school by awarding him the Raymond Bost Distinguished Professor Award and dedicating the yearbook to him. As a result of his loyal service to the college, he was also the recipient of the governor's Order of the Long Leaf Pine. A longtime member of Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church, he served on the council, was president of the congregation, worked on numerous committees, and was very active in the life of the church. A family man, Bob was known for his kind nature, honesty, and desire to do his best at any endeavor. For many years he was an avid model train enthusiast and collector. He is survived by Janice Simmons, his wife of 45 years; his daughter and son-in-law, Cassie and Lee Thompson, of Charlotte; a granddaughter, Natalie Blair Thompson; and a grandson, Robert Wells Thompson. He is also survived by his mother, Loma Furr Simmons; and brother, Harry Evans Simmons, of Charlotte. He was preceded in death by his father; and infant son, John Robert Simmons. The family expresses its sincere appreciation to the staff of Carolina Oncology and to Hospice nurse Melody Keener for the compassionate, skillful care Bob received. A worship service to celebrate his life will be held Sunday, Oct. 14, at Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church, in Bethlehem, with the Rev. Michael Stone officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 3 to 4 p.m., with the service following at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be sent to Mt. Pisgah's Building Fund, 9379 NC Hwy. 127, Hickory, NC 28601, to Lenoir-Rhyne University, Box 7467, Hickory, NC 28603, or to Catawba Regional Hospice, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC 28658. Online condolences may be left for the family at bass-smithfuneral home.com. Bass-Smith Funeral Home in Hickory is serving the family of Dr. Robert Newell Simmons.
Published in Hickory Daily Record on October 12, 2012