Buddy Simmons

Our Father, Francis Marion ‘Buddy’ Simmons, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, October 24, 2025. He was 87 years old.

Daddy was born to Elizabeth ‘Mammy’ Wise Simmons and William Gaston Simmons on March 31, 1938. He was the little brother of our uncle Bobby Fowler, who passed at 18 years of age.

Daddy married Betty Carol Simmons on September 23, 1965. Together, they raised four daughters, Becky (Terry) Smith, Anita (Ernie) Nolan, Kim Simmons, and Fran (Kevin) Adcock. Daddy was the original ‘Girl Dad’. He lived for his girls, and he somehow managed to survive dwelling in a home with five females and only one full bath. He was a saint living among us. He would walk the halls at night until his daughters made it safely home. Later, when dementia had settled in, he would do the same. Momma would tell us that he would say, ‘They need to get home,’ and check the windows until she could convince him that we were safely in bed. Daddy loved to fish. It was his passion. He knew all of the best spots at Camp Pee Dee. He taught us how to bait a hook and cast a rod before he taught us to ride a bike. Later, he taught us how to drive, fussing at the cars when we would slam on the brakes even though we were at fault. He taught us everything and he protected us from the world.

Daddy retired from Marley Electric, and he and Momma spent their retirement years watching their grandkids play sports and perform in plays. Daddy was so proud of his four grandchildren and great-grand; Tyler Nolan (Melody) and his great-grandson Tate, granddaughters, Caitlyn Nolan and Piper Adcock, and his bonus grandson, Caleb Adcock. The love that our parents had for the grands was immeasurable. They were so proud of their legacy.

We would like to thank everyone for their love and support. We take comfort that our parents are finally with our sister Kim, whom they never recovered from losing in 2012.

Per our parents’ wishes, a private graveside service will be held at a later date. Memorials can be made to the Community Kitchen of Bennettsville at 112 Liberty Street.

Online condolences may be made to www.bfhbennettsville.com.

Burroughs Funeral Home is honored to assist the Simmons family.

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