Obituary of Sonny Simmons

George Victor ‘Sonny’ Simmons Glace Bay It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather George Victor ‘Sonny’ Simmons on April 19, 2022. Born May 3, 1937, he was the son of the late Marcella (Mugford) and George Wellington Simmons. He was predeceased by the love of his life and partner in crime wife, Eileen; brothers, Calvin, Bill, Wick, Fred and Butch; sisters, Miriam, Effie, and Mae. Sonny is survived by his children, Kim (Mike), Greg (Marg), Rob (Shauna) and Stephen (Susan). He is also survived by his sister Marcella ‘Babe‘ Angelo who is the last surviving member of their immediate family. He was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather who was always there for our every need. It did not matter what time of day or night it was; he would stop whatever he was doing to help us out. He was a man of great integrity and purpose who led by example. His passion for being a grandfather was what made him so special. He was notorious for his plates of French Fries and Hot Dogs complete with steamed buns. All of his grandkids would laugh and say that he was always trying to feed them. His grandkids include Vicki (Sandy), Jennifer (Ryan), Brett (Rochelle), Erika (Taylor), Amanda (Lauren), Tori, Jessica and Bryar, his precious great grandchildren, Jacob, Lucas, Lilah, Sawyer, and Zoe. Dad was known for his abilities as an athlete. He had a softball career that spanned 40 years filled with many personal successes. He played on several championship teams and was one of only four Cape Bretoners chosen to represent Nova Scotia in the 1969 Canada Games. Following his playing days, he had a highly successful 10-year coaching career that saw him lead his players to several Eastern Canadian Softball titles. Softball was not the only sport he excelled at, Sonny played in the Commercial Hockey League and was known for his competitive play and grit. He served as president of the Hub Amateur Athletic Club for 7 years and during that time worked tirelessly to establish a dart league for men, women, and couples. We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dad’s best friend Joe ‘Gobbler’ MacDonald for your love, support, and the many visits over these last difficult years. Words just do not seem adequate. To his long-time walking buddy, Albert MacLean, we say thank you for your friendship. And lastly, but certainly not least, we want to thank our ‘Angel’ Susan MacIntyre, you were there when we couldn’t be. Your compassion and care for our father was truly remarkable. In tough times people demonstrate the true fabric of their integrity and you are truly a beautiful soul. We also want to thank his long-time physician, Dr. Kent Cadegan and of course Brenda for their years of care to our father. To the staff of Taigh Na Mara, thank you for the way you cared for our dad. Farewell to a ‘Really Good Guy.’ As per Dad’s wishes, there will be no visitation or service. Cremation has taken place under the care and compassion of T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 370 Reserve St., Glace Bay. 902-849-4199. A family graveside service will take place at a later date in Greenwood Cemetery, Glace Bay. Words of comfort may be expressed to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com.