Colonel Daymone Simmons, Sr.

With profound love and deep admiration, we celebrate the extraordinary life and legacy of Colonel Daymone Anthony Simmons, Sr., who departed this life on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family. A steadfast son, compassionate brother, loving husband, proud father, trailblazing leader, and dedicated soldier, Daymone’s life was defined by his unwavering commitment to family, service, country, and community.

Born on April 30, 1968, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Margree Simmons Russell (Johnny) and Percell Berry, Sr.(Shirleen). Daymone was raised by his grandparents, Joseph and Martha Simmons, with strong values, a powerful sense of purpose, and a relationship with God that began at Little Bryan Baptist Church with his decision to be saved. He grew up in Savannah, Georgia attending Savannah Chatham Public Schools, where he graduated as a Savannah High School Blue Jacket in 1986.

Daymone was a proud ROTC and football scholarships recipient and graduate of Savannah State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science. He later completed a Master of Science in Information Technology Management (Magna Cum Laude) from Trident University, and went on to graduate from numerous elite military education programs. He is a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated and Prince Hall Masonry Grand Lodge Union #410.

For the past 26 years, Daymone shared a beautiful life with his wife, LaTonia (Evette) Simmons. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, unwavering support and provision. Whether traveling, spending quiet moments together, or cheering on their children—Dunyji, Daymone II, Dayvone, and Eve—they created lasting memories rooted in joy and togetherness. Daymone’s love for his family was steadfast and deeply felt; he never missed a chance to show up, support, and remind them just how much they meant to him.

Colonel Simmons faithfully served in the United States Army, retiring with honor in 2024. Over the course of his distinguished 30-year career, he held numerous command and leadership positions that directly supported national defense, emergency responses, and the advancement of the Army National Guard. His impact extended across the nation and around the globe, leaving a lasting imprint on everyone he led and served alongside.

Among his many accomplishments, Colonel Simmons served as Director of G4 Logistics for the District of Columbia Army National Guard, ensuring over 1,200 personnel were trained and ready to respond to crises. He played a critical role in the planning and execution of the 59th Presidential Inauguration and Operation Capitol Response —mobilizing over 25,000 joint service members from across the United States.

He also held command at the Mission Training Complex at Fort Indiantown Gap, PA, where he oversaw training for more than 100 military units in 12 states.

A strategic mind and meticulous planner, he led efforts as Chief of the Construction Branch overseeing $213 million in military construction projects and was the driving force behind a congressional authorization of $1.2 billion in MILCON funding. His expertise brought him to the Pentagon, Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan, Stuttgart, Germany and beyond, always advancing the mission and taking care of his soldiers.

His achievements were many, and his decorations include the Bronze Star, six Meritorious Service Medals, and the prestigious Department of the Army Staff Identification Badge, among others.

Beyond the uniform, Colonel Simmons was a man of deep faith, fierce love for his family, and quiet strength. He is preceded in death by his parents Percell Berry, Jr and Margree Simmons Russell.

He is survived by his beloved wife, LaTonia Evette Simmons; cherished children, Dunyji of Savannah, GA, Daymone II, Dayvone, and Eve of White Plains, MD—his greatest joy and proudest legacy; siblings, Sabina Bell, Paul Brooks(Chenita), Percell Berry Jr., Darren Berry, Ulonda Robinson(Thomas), Shirleen Holmes(Vinson Sr.), Johnny Simmons, and Joivanni Russell; father-in-law, Willie L. James of Savannah, GA; mother-in-law, Evelyn James of Savannah, GA; sisters-in-law, Demetrias “Dee-Dee” James of Savannah, GA and LaNoral Danielle Thomas (Sherman) of Bristow, VA; Godmother, Patsy Woods; and Goddaughter, Addison Blaise Sledge. In addition to his immediate family, he leaves behind a host of devoted aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Daymone was a mentor, a protector, a visionary, and a friend. His life was a shining example of purpose in action—whether building bridges in foreign lands or guiding young officers at home, his presence commanded respect and inspired excellence.

We honor Colonel Simmons not only for the battles he fought and the missions he led, but for the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the family he built. Though our hearts are heavy, we lift him up in celebration—grateful for every moment we shared with this remarkable man.

Rest in eternal peace, Colonel Daymone Anthony Simmons, Sr.

Your duty is done. Your legacy endures. You will never be forgotten.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a viewing on August 1, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Adams Funeral Services, located at 510 Stephenson Avenue, Savannah, GA 31405. Following the viewing, a funeral service will be held on August 2, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the First Congregational Church- United Church of Christ, located at 421 Habersham St, Savannah, GA 31401. *This service will be live-streamed on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ6Qjr6Gw2LgmWHnmq4T6w

we will also share the live-stream to our FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/adamsfuneralservices

Colonel Daymone Simmons, Sr. will be remembered for his dedication to his country and the community. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him.