James A. Simmons, 75, of rural Columbia City, IN, and a native of Huntington, IN, died Monday, Jan. 14, 2013, at 12:40 p.m. at Miller's Merry Manor in Columbia City.

Mr. Simmons attended Columbia City High School. He was employed by International Harvester, Fort Wayne, for 30 years, working in the proving grounds. He was a 25-year volunteer with the Columbia City Fire Department and a former member of the Thorncreek Volunteer Fire Department. He was a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles Lodge 1906, Columbia City.

He was born Jan. 31, 1937, in Huntington to Benjamin and Elsie Shoaf Simmons. He married Doris E. Brown on Aug. 30, 1968, and she survives.

Survivors include four sons, James A. (Sandy) Simmons, of Harrisburg, PA; Dennis D. Simmons and Robert Ewing, both of Columbia City; and Daniel G. Simmons of Monroe, MI; three daughters, Tamera S. Simmons and Diana Simmons, both of Columbia City, and Lisa Simmons, of Churubusco; a sister, Mabel Mabie, of Columbia City; 13 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

A service was held on Thursday, Jan. 17, 2013, at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

Memorial gifts may be made to the American Cancer Society.