WALTERBORO:     Eugene Haws Simmons, born July 30, 1969 in Colleton County to Carol R. Simmons and William F. Simmons, passed on March 6, 2018 after a long battle, with a rare debilitating disease. Gene endured more than most could have ever withstood and he never gave up. His love for his wife Heather and his two children, Mary Reeves and Forrest were his reason to keep fighting.

He instilled in his children all of the qualities that made him the incredible man he was, and through them he will always be remembered.  Gene graduated from John C. Calhoun Academy in 1987 and later graduated from The University of South Carolina with a degree in History and a minor in Southern Studies. His was a proud member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity, The Gamecock Club, The Sons of Confederate Veterans, QDMA, a life member of the NRA, as well as an avid outdoorsman. Gene was the owner of Simmons Carolina, Inc., where he served as a land and timber broker and real estate developer. His procurement of water, sewer and electric infrastructure to exit 62 off I-95, will be an enduring legacy for his children and Colleton County. He worked tirelessly to see his vision come to life, only to be cut short.

He taught Forrest everything about the outdoors and groomed him to be one of the finest hunters, fisherman and drummers in the low country. Mary Reeves is her daddy's girl through and through. She has his spirit, intelligence, wit and passion for the Gamecocks. Gene referred to his children as his, "pride and joy."

Perhaps the ultimate testament to the man Gene was, though, is the bond he shares with his loving and devoted wife, Heather.  When they met on a blind date 29 years ago, each instantly knew they had found their perfect match. They were inseparable during the best of times and the toughest times. Through everything, Heather was and always will be right by his side. It takes an incredible woman to love someone so deeply and unconditionally for as long as she did. Heather and Gene's love will live on forever through their beautiful children that make them each so proud every day.

Gene is survived by his wife of 25 years, Heather, and his two children, Mary Reeves and Forrest. Also, his mother Carol Simmons and sister, Kathleen Whelan.

Graveside funeral services will be held Friday morning, March 9, 2018 at 11:00 in the Live Oak Cemetery.  Visitation will be held Thursday evening from 6-8 PM at Parker-Rhoden Funeral Home, 117 Paul Street in Walterboro.  Parker-Rhoden Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.