Richard D. "Rick" Simonton Jr.

Richard D. “Rick” Simonton, Jr., age 51, passed away on Saturday, December 15, 2012. He is survived by his beloved wife of twenty-five years, Alison (McDermott), daughter Caitlin Marie and son Sean Michael. He is also survived by his mother Reatha, brothers Terry (Cara) of Millbrook, Randy (Carol) of Montgomery, Jim (Tonya) of Wetumpka and his sisters Lisa (Randy) Whitmore of Auburn and Jennifer (Les) Johnson of Millbrook. He had 17 nieces and nephews. Rick was preceded in death by his father Richard D. (Dick) Simonton, grandparents Dale and Freddie Simonton, and Tom and Phyllis Canada.

Following graduation from Sydney Lanier High School in 1979, Rick enlisted in the United States Navy. He served his nation in uniform for 11 years before “coming ashore” to serve his family, church and community. Rick earned the rank of Electronics Technician First Class, Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist qualifications, and expert marksmanship on all firearms as part of the Ship’s Self-Defense Force. Returning to Montgomery, Rick worked for Faulkner University, Regions Mortgage, and Alabama Business Insurance Group and received his Bachelor in Business Administration degree from Faulkner in 1996.

A lifelong member of Carriage Hills/Grace Pointe church, “Mr. Ricky” was committed to sharing Christ with Montgomery’s youth. He devoted countless hours to Youth and Children’s ministries teaching Primary Worship and Bible classes for all ages. He offered up his technical and vocal gifts in audio-visual support and the Praise Team. Rick was proud to have served this past year with Compassion 21 Celebration Singers and looked forward to sharing his love of piano and banjo. Rick’s life was one of service, to his Lord, his country, his family and community, and our collective future.

To quote words of encouragement left for the family on Facebook: “I could use 10 more workers just like him in Children's Ministry! Always caring, laid back, truly loved knowing and being known in our hall”, and "an amazing uncle, a considerate son and brother, and loving father. Uncle Rick, your heartfelt smiles, jovial laughter, and spiritual guidance will be missed”.

The family will receive friends at the White Chapel Funeral Home on Monday, December 17, 2012 from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Grace Pointe Church of Christ, 1565 Ray Thorington Rd, on Tuesday, December 18, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. A visitation will also be held one hour prior to the service on Tuesday. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Compassion 21 Celebration Singers or the Grace Pointe Children’s ministry.