Rev. Harold Gene Simmons Sr.

Rev. Harold Gene Simmons, Sr., was born on November 11, 1944, in El Campo, Texas to Mr. Arthur and Mrs. Almeter Simmons. He was one of six children born to this union. Arthur Simmons, Sr., Almeter Simmons, brothers Alfred, Arthur, Jr., and Walter and sisters Yvonne and Ruby precede him in death.

He graduated Valedictorian May 24, 1963 from E.A Greer High School in El Campo, Texas and went on to secure his undergraduate degree from Texas Southern University. Harold joined the United States Air Force in 1964 and served in the Vietnam War.

During his time he was awarded the “All-PACAF-Wide” title with his singing group “The Cordials”.

Harold was the proud father of four children, Harold Simmons, Jr., Terry Parrimore, Sr. and Janell Connor. In 1972, he married Melvia Shropshire, and to this union a daughter was born, Pashaa Simmons.

Harold accepted Christ at an early age and later accepted the calling to preach the uncompromising gospel under the leadership of Rev. Lemmie McGrew of Garwood, Texas.

He went on to become a renowned photographer capturing images of the likes of Oprah, George Foreman, and many many others. In July 2006, Harold opened the El Campo African American Museum and dedicated his life to sharing and educating the youth on our imparted African American history.

He leaves to mourn children ~ Harold Simmons, Jr., Terry Parrimore, Sr. and wife Tanetria Parrimore, Pashaa Simmons-Green and husband Melvin Green and Janell Connor. Grandchildren ~ Destinei Simmons-Green, Terry Parrimore Jr., Jerome Riggs, Brooke-Lynn Green, Ebony Riggs, and Madison Simmons, a host of nieces and nephews, cousins and a beloved El Campo Community.