Lance Christian Simmons

Lance Christian Simmons, 57, passed away on March 11, 2026, in St. Louis, Missouri.

Lance was born on July 7, 1968, in Kewanee, Illinois, to Jim Franklin Simmons and Linda Kay (Rogula) Simmons. On February 25, 1995, he married Rebecca Johnson in West Plains, Missouri, beginning a marriage marked by shared hospitality and a love for their community.

Lance found great joy in many hobbies and interests. He was an avid fisherman and raised racing Homer pigeons. He loved sports and was a loyal fan of the Chicago Bears, while also closely following the Missouri State University–West Plains Grizzlies men’s basketball. Lance and Rebecca especially enjoyed opening their home as a host family to local college athletes, creating a welcoming place for many young people. In his spare time, he enjoyed attending auctions and antiquing, always taking pleasure in discovering a unique treasure. He will be remembered for his kindness, his enthusiasm for the things he loved, and the hospitality he and Rebecca shared with others.

He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Simmons; his mother, Linda Simmons; bonus children Chris, Twann, Magda, Malik, Desmond, Zeek, Jonathan, Shunderrius, Charles, Ronald, Ryan, Keion, Javon, and many others; his in-laws, Bill and Vickie Johnson; one sister-in-law, Kimberly Wade and husband, Mike; one niece, Rachel Smillie and husband, Zach; one nephew, Ryan Wade and wife, Trisha; one great-niece, Cora; a soon-to-be great-nephew, Carter; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jim Simmons, and his grandparents.