William Simmerman

W. O. "Bill" Simmerman, 93 years of age, of Concord, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2018 at the Brookdale Senior Living Center in Concord.

Born on December 23, 1924 in Portsmouth, Ohio to the late John Robert and Bessie Simmerman, Bill was preceded in death by both of his parents, by his brothers Robert Simmerman, Jay Simmerman, and his son William “Jack” Matney.

Bill was a company man, and he worked for the J.C. Penney Company for 41 years. He started at age 17 working in the stock room in Beckley, WV. During the course of his 41-year career he held every position in the store. He was hardworking, dedicated and adored by his employees. In 1946, he hired a woman named Jaunita Brown who became the love of his life. In June 2017 they celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. His career took him to Colonial Heights, VA followed by Rockingham, NC. He retired in 1983 as the Manager for the Rockingham store.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and woodworking. His real passion was spending time with his four children, eight grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. His family treasured every moment with him. His love, kindness, laughter, guidance, support and encouragement will always be remembered.

The family will receive friends from 1:30 - 2:00 PM, Saturday, February 10, 2018 at Hartsell Funeral Home in Harrisburg. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 PM in the funeral home chapel, officiated by Rev. Charles M. Efird. Burial will conclude at the Carolina Memorial Park Kannapolis, Hwy. 29N at I-85, Exit 58, Kannapolis.

Survivors include wife, Jaunita Simmerman of Concord; children, Delores Matney of Concord, John Simmerman (Margie) of Concord, and Alan (Susan) Simmerman of Wilmington; grandchildren, Jack Matney, Jr. (wife Sandy), Laura Matney Costello (Berk), Warren Lanier, David Lanier, John Simmerman, Jr., Angela Simmerman Keer (Tom), Russ Simmerman (Christy), and Jill Simmerman; great-grandchildren, Brooke Matney, Russell Matney, Ryan Matney, Ellie Matney, Taylor Costello, Chelsea Costello, Morgan Wolfe, Isaac Wolfe, Hudson Simmerman, Hadley Simmerman, and Smith Simmerman.

The family established a memorial fund in Bill’s memory. Donations can be made to Brookdale Senior Living, 2452 Rock Hill Church Rd. Concord, NC 28027, c/o Pam Clark.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Harrisburg is serving the Simmerman family.

Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com