Jeff Clay Simmons

Jeff Clay Simmons , age 83, of Grants Pass, Oregon died Friday January 25, 2008 at Three Rivers Community Hospital.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 2, at 2:00 at Bethany Presbyterian Church, 748 NW Fifth Street, Grants Pass, Oregon.

Remembrances may be sent to: The Smile Train, P.O. Box 96231, Washington DC 20090-6231. www.SmileTrain.org or Bethany Presbyterian Church, 748 NW Fifth Street, Grants Pass, OR 97526

Jeff was born in Rawlins, Wyoming on November 24, 1924. As a child, Jeff enjoyed the outdoors. He spent his free time hunting with his dog, and also spent his summers working with the U.S. Grazing Service and the Union Pacific Railroad.

Jeff graduated from Rawlins High School in 1943 and then joined the United States Navy, serving on the destroyer Pritchett during World War II as a radar tech. After his discharge from the Navy, he attended flight school in Seattle, Washington.

He married Gail Eloise Moore in 1946, and was married to her for twenty years. During this time, three children were born. In 1967, he married Suzanne June, and helped raise her two sons.

Jeff was employed by Boeing Company for thirty years. After retiring in 1987, he continued to enjoy camping and fishing as well as traveling in the United States. He and Suzanne moved to Grants Pass in 1989 and have lived there since.

While living in Washington, Jeff was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church and began memberships in the Boeing Management Association and Elks Club. While living in Grants Pass, he was a member of the American Legion and Bethany Presbyterian Church. Jeff was also active in the Tin Can Sailors (National Association of Destroyer Veterans).

Jeff volunteered with Boy Scouts of America, Campfire Girls, and most recently with the American Legion Honor Guard. He also led Bible study groups.

Jeff has always enjoyed outdoor activities including camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, photography, golf and archery. Indoors, Jeff enjoyed cooking as well as playing cards with his friends.

Jeff is survived by his loving wife Suzanne, a sister Anna Lee Taylor of Gainesville, Georgia, daughters Donna Stamper of Quilcene, Washington and Georgia Matthews of Ridgeway, Virginia, a son Greg of Duvall, Washington, a step son Craig of Everett, Washington. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren.

Jeff was preceded in death by his step son, Mark.

Jeff’s presence will be missed by family and friends.