Carol Jean Roderick Simmons, wife of the late William "Billy" Francis Simmons, passed away peacefully in Lexington, South Carolina, on Friday, January 17, 2025. She was 85.

Carol was born in Brooklyn, New York, on November 20, 1939, to Kathleen Haws Roderick and Eugene Anthony Roderick. She moved to Walterboro, South Carolina, in 1952, and attended the University of South Carolina in Columbia. While at USC, Carol enjoyed playing intramural basketball and loved participating in her sorority's (Pi Beta Phi) activities. Upon her return to Walterboro, she worked for many years at both the Skardon Agency and Steadman Agency before retiring.

Carol was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church, where she was a former member of the choir and Sally Star Circle. She also spent many years involved in her children's activities. During this time, she served as a Brownie troop and Cub Scout leader, PTO president, grade mother, and member of the band booster club at John C. Calhoun Academy.  Carol's favorite pastimes were reading, going to Edisto Beach, and cheering on the South Carolina Gamecocks. Most of all, she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her sons, Gene Simmons, and an infant son, Jim Simmons. She leaves behind her daughter, Kathleen Simmons Whelan of Columbia, her four grandchildren, Cam Whelan of Santa Monica, California, Jack Whelan of Atlantic Beach, Florida, and Mary Reeves Simmons and Forrest Simmons of Walterboro. Additionally, she is survived by step- siblings, Louisa Hodges Sigman of Savannah, and Ted Hodges, Jr. of Walterboro.  Carol was very fortunate to have wonderful caregivers while she was at her home in Walterboro- Helen Jenkins, Flo Hamilton, and Janie Badger.

Graveside services will be held Saturday afternoon, January 25, 2025 at 12:00 at the Live Oak Cemetery in Walterboro.  The family will receive friends immediately following the service.  Memorials can be sent to Colleton County Memorial Library, 600 Hampton Street, Walterboro, SC  29488,  or to the charity of one's choice.  Parker-Rhoden Funeral home, 117 Paul Street in Walterboro is in charge of arrangements.