Samuel Wesley "Sam" Simmons, of Chester, Oklahoma, was born on January 29, 1941, to Thomas Samuel and Ava E. Simmons at the home in rural Major County.  He passed from this life in Okeene, OK on January 1, 2023, at the age of 81 years, 11 months, and three days.

Sam was raised on the homestead in the Orion area and attended the Liberty School.  Here he was baptized in Archer's Pond by the Midway Assembly of God Church.   Sam then attended Fairview High School, where he was active in FFA.  He was a member of the Diary judging team and was awarded the Jr. Master Farmer degree. Sam graduated with the Class of 1959.  He later graduated trade school as a blasting mechanic.

Sam served in the United States Army from 1963 to 1969, attaining the rank of Private First Class before being honorably discharged.  He worked with heavy equipment with several jobs over the years at Burrel's Implement, Clayton Propane, City of Thomas, Ditch Witch, and US Gypsum.

When Sam was ten, he burned his legs in a fire, and to encourage his recovery and stretch his legs, the family got him his first coonhound, "Lady," which began his lifelong passion for hunting and animals.  He raised many hounds over the years and went on many coyote hunts. Later in life, Sam became a beekeeper, having several hives.

In addition to his parents, Samuel is preceded in death by his first wife, Jo Simmons, his second wife, Irene Simmons, and sister Nova Leah Welch.

Sam is survived by three brothers, Doyt Simmons of Woodward, OK, Ronald Simmons and wife Jo of Mooreland, and Elvin Simmons of Chester, OK; two step-sons, Ryan Crain of Cordell, and Darren DeLong of Yukon; as well as many other nieces, nephews, and friends.

Memorial Donations in Sam's honor may be made to the Orion Cemetery C/O Redinger Funeral Home, Box 236, Seiling, OK  73663.