A Time to Be Born:   Ray A. Simmons was born in Albany, Georgia on October 24, 1968. He was the beloved son of Raymond Berry and the late Barbara Simmons.

A Time to Learn:   He received his formal education in the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Monroe Comprehensive High School in 1986.  While at Monroe, he was actively involved in numerous school activities and events.

A Time to Work:  A highly motivated, persistent, and conscientious individual, Ray was employed as a laborer with the Sugar Refinery for many years.  He was a dedicated worker who labored untiringly to provide  quality service.  His employment record was defined by high standards and superior service.

A Time to Love:  Loving son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, nephew, and cousin, Ray's family was at the center of his life; and he showered them with unconditional love.  He believed strongly in family ties, gave of himself freely, and took special interest in events that brought family and friends together in love and harmony.  He was a man of principle and simplicity who loved his family and friends unreservedly, never met a stranger, and was always ready to lend a helping hand.

A Time to Rest:  On Wednesday, November 22, 2023, Ray departed this earthly life at the Hospice House of Savannah, Georgia. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, J. B. Yarn; grandparents, Emma and Charles Tinson, John Berry, and Gene Simmons; uncle and aunts, David Simmons, Sharon Reid, and Phyllis Mosely

A Time to Cherish:   Fond memories will forever be cherished by his children, Citivia Simmons, Yashcia Simmons, Briontae Simmons, Dasia Hendricks, Dorien Griffin, and Raelyn Simmons; his father, Raymond (Darlene) Berry; grandmother, Rebecca Simmons; grandchildren,     Sherrod Dennis, Makylah Mitchell, Londyn Hartsfield, Amiyah Hartsfield, Jakaii Simmons, and Deshon Simmons; siblings, Cha-Ron Berry, Derrick Reed, Empress Berry, Ray-Nisha Reed, Cornelius Berry, Raelympia Berry, Lonnie Green, Tawanda Barron, Tenechelle Yarn, LaQuita Yarn, Cordarryl Yarn, and Jarvis Yarn; aunts and uncles,       Barbara Maybank, Helen Clemmons, Stella Tinson, Trease Tinson,  Patricia Perry, Dorothy Simmons, Larry (Mary) Tinson, Randy Tinson, Marchie Tinson, Lawrence Tinson, and Brian Tinson; a great aunt, Grace Dudley; special cousin, Monique Smith; best friend, Anthony Pittmon; and a host of  nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.