Chester Eugene Simmons Jr., age 81, was born on August 15, 1943, in Shreveport, Louisiana and passed away on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, in Bossier City, Louisiana.

After graduating from Fair Park High School, in 1961, Chester proudly served in the United States Army.  When he returned home from active duty, he became a drill sergeant in the United States Army Reserves.  Chester also worked as a corrections officer at both, Caddo Correctional Center and David Wade prison.  He continued to serve his community as a Shreveport police officer and was awarded several letters of commendation for exemplary actions taken while on duty.  Later on, Chester enjoyed working as a construction manager for Choice Homes in Texas and for Reston Corporation in Delaware.

Chester loved Jesus with all of his heart and wanted to serve the Lord.  In 1992, he successfully completed his courses of studies and was licensed to preach the Gospel.  He served as a Sunday School teacher and visited various churches to preach as well as ministering to inmates in prisons.  He also loved to fellowship with people, and those who knew and loved Chester, will miss his laughter and his bigger than life personality!

Chester is preceded in death by his parents, Chester Eugene Simmons Sr. and Fanne Mae Gilbert Simmons.

Left to cherish his memory is his "Best Friend", Connie Grzesiek, whom he dearly loved; brother, Larry Simmons and wife, Tina; two sons, Robert Simmons and wife, Kelly and William (Roy) Simmons; stepson, Ronnie Foster; grandson, Austin Simmons; and three great-grandsons.

The family would like to express their gratitude to family and friends who kept him in their prayers and to Colonial Oaks Nursing Home and Bristol Hospice for the love and care given to him following his stroke.

A Memorial Service to honor Chester's life will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Elm Grove Baptist Church, 8180 Barksdale Boulevard, Bossier City, Louisiana, 71112.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to Elm Grove Baptist Church or the Disabled Veterans of America.