Artis Ray Simmons, Sr.

Artis Ray Simmons, Sr., age 87, of Erie, passed away Sunday, November 12, 2023 at Fairview Manor, surrounded by his family. He was born in Laurel, MS on November 3, 1936; the son of the late Dennis and Blossie Simmons-Smith. He accepted Jesus Christ and was baptized at an early age. In his latter years he studied the Bible more, and read daily devotionals, desiring a closer connection with his Savior.

Artis served in the United States Army, in Korea, during the Post-Korean War Era. After returning home from service, he worked several years as a laborer for Coyne Textile Services, Port Erie Plastics, Kaiser Aluminum, and later retired from Erie City Iron Works/ Zurn Industries, where he worked as a welder for 30 years.

He was an avid sports enthusiast in Martial Arts, he established several karate schools in Erie, teaching self defense classes in the community and on college campuses. Artis traveled nationally and internationally competing in karate tournaments. In 1970 he was named fifth best in the country in karate, in 1985, with over 200 trophies won, he was inducted in the United States Karate Association Hall of Fame, and the National Hall of Fame. He appeared several times in Black Belt Magazine. Artis also enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, traveling, and watching Western movies. He was a true Pittsburgh Steelers fan; enjoying the sport of football on all levels.

In addition to his parents, Artis is preceded in death by his wife, Charlotte Hinkler Simmons, his grandparents, and several aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his four sons; Raymond Brothers (Kimberly), Artis Simmons, Jr. (Betty), Larry Simmons, and Myron Simmons (Jynickie); four daughters; Cynthia Frost (Chris), Patricia Keyes, Tina White (John), all of Erie, PA, and Brenda Vactor (Kim) of Huntsville, AL. He is further survived by his former wife and friend, Ethel Simmons, a loving aunt, Charity Simmons, and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, and friends.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the staff at Fairview Manor, AseraCare Hospice, and the VA Medical Center for their care and service. 

Friends are invited to call on the family Friday, November 17, 2023 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Service Inc. Downtown, 602 West 10th Street. A Celebration of life service will be held Saturday, November 18, with calling from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at First Born Apostolic Faith Church of God, 1221 East 19^th Street, Erie with Pastor John Thomas providing the Eulogy.

Burial will follow in Lakeside Cemetery.

Send condolences to www.BurtonQuinnScott.com