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Charles Franklin Simmons, Sr., peacefully passed away on May 13, 2026, at the age of 79, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Beaumont, Texas, he was the son of Earl Simmons and Catherine Wiley. Charles was a devoted husband to Gwendolyn Faye Simmons for 55 wonderful years, a proud father of three, and a loving grandfather to five. His family was his greatest joy, and he treasured every moment spent with them—whether sharing a meal, watching the Houston Texans, or simply enjoying peaceful moments at home. Charles graduated from Clark College in 1965 with a degree in music. Soon after graduating, he enlisted in the United States Navy, proudly serving on the USS O’Brien and the USS Davidson from 1966 to 1970. Working in postal operations during his service, Charles often filled quiet moments with the sound of his saxophone, sharing his love of music with those around him. He spoke fondly of his time in the Navy and especially cherished the opportunity to travel and experience parts of the world he otherwise may never have seen. He was honored with the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with five stars, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. After his military service, Charles worked for 20 years at NASA as a painter and technician in the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility. He contributed to some of the most critical components of the space shuttle program, taking great pride in work that would eventually travel into space. Charles was a true handyman and a man who was incredibly skilled with his hands. If something was broken, he could fix it. He loved working on projects, figuring out how things worked, and helping others with repairs whenever they needed him. He took pride in hard work and providing for his family, embodying the strength, dependability, and character of a true man’s man. He enjoyed grilling his famous BBQ ribs for family gatherings, tending to his garden, playing his saxophone, appreciating good music and admiring classic cars. Charles will be remembered for his strong work ethic, unwavering love for his family, his unique sense of humor, and the many ways he showed love and care to others through both his actions and generosity. Charles leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, laughter, and service that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He was predeceased by his father, Earl; mother, Catherine; his beloved parents who raised him, Riley “RC” and Bernice Colbert; and his cherished sisters at heart, Matlean Colbert, Jeanetta Gill, Joan Nelson and Barbara Hathaway. He is survived by his wife, Gwendolyn; his sons Charles II “Chuck” (Melissa), Kelton, and Michael (Kim); grandchildren, Charles III “Trey” (wife, Bri) and Dante (Chuck) , Kelton Jr. “TJ” (Kelton), Kingston and Zoe (Michael) and great-grandson, Carter, son of Trey and Bri. The memorial service will be held on May 30, 2026 at 12:00pm at New Jerusalem Baptist Church. The visitation will be held from 11:00am to the time of the service. Memorial donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Michael Simmons via Zelle to 832-446-7492.

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Charles Franklin Simmons Sr.

July 25, 1946 - May 13, 2026