Gerald Anthony Simmons, age 88, of Zachary, Louisiana passed away on Sunday, June 11, 2023. Born April 29, 1935, Gerald was raised in Simmesport, Louisiana in Avoyelles Parish by his parents Emerson and Dora, and was married to Martha Ruth Meaux Simmons for 64 years. He is survived by his wife as well as their three children Cinthia S. Mancuso, Christopher S. Simmons and Carolyn S. Suber. More than a dozen grandchildren, great grandchildren as well as multiple, honorary family members gave him great joy and will proudly continue his legacy. He is loved by his siblings Eugene "Gene" Simmons, Norma S. Cardwell, James "DD" Simmons (deceased), and Loraine S. Jackson, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A lifelong lobbyist, Gerald was always immersed in politics and even recently, could predictably be found sitting in the House of Representatives watching the proceedings and keeping track of the lawmaking. Known to never have met a stranger, Gerald was described by everyone as charming, friendly, and always willing to share a story about the inner workings of government and politics. Working for the Louisiana Dairy Products Association for more than half a century, he is a legend at the State Capitol and will be remembered fondly by elected officials, legislative staff and his fellow lobbyists.
As a first generation college student, Gerald was extremely proud of earning a degree in Animal Science from Louisiana State University (LSU) in 1957. He generously sponsored an endowed professorship in agriculture at LSU in 2001 to continue supporting the teaching and research activities of his alma mater. He honorably served in the United States Army in the post office and the kitchen as a cook where he honed his culinary skills, using them to feed large groups at gatherings for the rest of his life.
Known as an avid outdoorsman, Gerald could often be found working in his immaculate yard, cutting grass and baling hay, hunting and fishing, and was once featured on the cover of Louisiana Sportsman Magazine.
Visitation for Gerald will be held in Baton Rouge at Rabenhorst Funeral Home Downtown (Government Street) on Thursday, June 15 from 9:00 am – 11:00 am with a service immediately following at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the LSU Foundation for the Gerald A. Simmons Professorship of Dairy Sciences in the School of Animal Science
