Fred Ellis Simmons

Fred” Pop” Ellis Simmons, 77, of Herrin, passed away on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Herrin Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Funeral services conducted by his family will be held at 1:00 P.M., Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home.  Burial with military rites will be in Herrin City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M., Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Fred was born on November 25, 1947, in Herrin, to Fred and Ernestine (Edwards) Simmons. 

He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Simmons (John Allsopp); grandchildren, Harley Crawshaw (Evan Lawrence) and Rayce Crawshaw (Alexis Coleman); sister, Christy (Keith) Baggett; nephews, Cory (Jacqui) Cripps, Justin Killion, Sean Simmons, Stephen Simmons, and Eric Simmons; nieces, Stephanie Hunter and Erica Simmons; friend and the mother of his daughter, Angie Heavener (Bob Rothluebbers); plus best friend, Bob Essick. 

He was preceded by his parents; brothers, Mike (Tammy) Simmons, and Danny Croslin; and nephew, Kyle Cripps. 

Fred served honorably in the U.S. Air Force, reflecting his deep love of country and dedication to service. After his time in the military, he built a long and varied career. He worked in the maintenance department at Southern Illinois University for over 15 years, retiring in 2010. Before that, he was a machine shop supervisor at Astechnologies in Roswell, Georgia. He also pursued entrepreneurial ventures, owning and operating Simmons Furniture in Herrin and Marion, as well as Par For The Course Driving Range near the Williamson County Airport with his brother-in-law, Jim Cripps.

A true car enthusiast, Fred had a passion for hot rods and took great pride in restoring and maintaining his 1965 Chevelle and 2001 Z28 Camaro SuperSport. He was a regular at local car shows and, in earlier years, enjoyed spending time on the golf course and shooting pool.

Above all else, Fred cherished his family. He found his greatest joy in spending time with his loved ones—especially his grandchildren, who were the light of his life.

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