Donald R. Simmonds

Donald R.  Simmonds, 87, of Greene, passed away quietly and peacefully at the New York State Veterans’ Home in Oxford on October 1, 2021.  He was born on November 3,1933 in New Hartford, NY, devoted son of the late Robert and Margaret Simmonds. He was also predeceased by his loving wife, Alayne, of 61 years.  He was also predeceased by his brother, David Davies; brother-in-law, Don Phelps and brother-in-law, Norman Bryant. Don will be dearly missed by his loving children, Sherry (Charlie) Brown, Lanette (Loren) Breck, Jeff Simmonds, Jo Ann (Rich) Deady, and Rob (Amy) Simmonds. He was blessed with several grandchildren whom he was very proud of including Andrew, Mariellen, Brian, Lee, Corey, Emily, Kristin, Ryan, Nicholas, David, Greta, and Paige. He was known as “Grandpa Great” to Liam, Maisey, Benson, Alayna, Reece, Stella, Lily, and Payton.  They were a twinkle in his eye and to each of them he was the greatest.  He leaves behind his loving sister, Joan Phelps; sister-in-law, Sandy Bryant; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Wayne and Char Bryant; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Don graduated from Greene Central School Class of 1951 after which he received a degree from Broome Community College majoring in Mechanical Technology.  Don served his country during the Korean Conflict in the US Army. He worked at several companies including Raymond Corporation, Greene; Scintilla, Sidney; and GAF, Johnson City. Then he began his career job as Village of Greene Superintendent of Public Works. He was also a Village Trustee.  He was very dedicated to his work and working crew for 26 years retiring in 1995. Don loved the village of Greene and always made it his home.  He dedicated his time to the Greene Lions Club, Greene Fire Department and Greene Emergency Squad. He was Fireman of the Year in 1978 and Greater Greene Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the year in 1984.  After his retirement Don and Alayne spent time traveling and camping.  Don was a long time member of Lake Ludlow Club where he enjoyed spending time hunting with his son and close friends.  He looked forward to time on the pontoon boat with his family.  Don enjoyed scuba diving, fishing and puttering with any project that came along!  Don loved life with his family and many friends making memories.  He and Alayne and their dog Mandy could be seen sitting on the porch of their home visiting with people as they walked by.  It was their happy place! Don’s children would like to thank the staff of the NYS Veterans Home in Oxford for their loving care of their father during the past three years.  In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Greene Fire Department, Greene Emergency Squad or First Congregational Church of Greene. A memorial service will be held 10:00am Friday at the First Congregational Church UCC in Greene with the Rev. Curtis Whitman officiating. Burial services will be private. Friends of the family may call Thursday from 1:00 to 3:00pm and 5:00 to 7:00pm at Root Funeral Home 23 North Chenango Street, Greene, NY 13778. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.rootfh.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald R. Simmonds, please visit our floral store.