Willie Simmons, Lll

Willie Moses Simmons, III., 18, became a star amongst the Angels in Heaven, on Sunday, April 18, 2021.  Willie was born on January 1, 2003, in Austin, Texas, to Vanissa Penson and Willie Simmons, Jr.  He was an exceptional student, talented athlete, and natural born leader.  He served as the Elgin Varsity Football Team’s Captain and was an intimidating presence as an outside linebacker for any opposing team’s offense.  Willie was committed to bettering himself and those around him, both on and off the field.

His love for family, friends, and life was an inspiration to everyone who had the honor of knowing him – He always found ways to ensure everyone felt included. He enjoyed spending time with loved ones and playing PS5.  Above all, he loved God and professed without hesitation, his saving faith in Jesus Christ. Willie attended weekly Bible Study at First Baptist Church in Elgin and was a regular visitor at Greater Mount Zion Church.  His favorite scripture verse was Isaiah 41:10, knowing without a doubt, God’s Right Hand was always on his shoulder.

Little Willie is survived by both his parents, Willie Moses Simmons, Jr. and Vanissa Penson; siblings, Destiny, Sierra, Joshua, and Sharissa; paternal grandparents, Willie Moses, Sr. and Flossie Simmons; maternal grandmother, Eunice Penson; aunts and uncles, Ronald Simmons, Sr., Kizzy Simmons, Josh Simmons, Sr., Chris Simmons, Barron Penson, Gerald Penson, Chris Penson, Devilon Penson, Larry Penson, and Shonda Penson Joiner; a host of cousins; extended family; and dear friends, teammates, classmates, coaches, teachers, mentors, and clergy.  His life and legacy will forever live on through us.

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He will lie in state at Elgin Funeral Home, Monday, April 26th from 9:00 AM until 8:00 PM, and Family will receive guests from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM.  A Home-Going Celebration will be conducted a Greater Mount Zion Baptist Church of Austin, Tuesday, April 27th at 11:00 AM with Reverends, Gaylon Clark and Chris Simmons presiding.  He will be laid to rest at the Littig Cemetery following services. PLEASE NOTE:  Due to COVID-19 Precautions still in effect, attendance at the Home-Going Celebration will be LIMITED, however all are welcome, but once capicity is reached, overflow will have to be present outside the church.  All are welcome to view the services, which will be livestreamed through the funeral home (here on this page) and the church website (https://player.streammonkey.com/5f347a11c5626).

Words of Gratitude
In moments like this, relationships connected by genuine love and affection are a gift from God. Because of your strength and encouragement, we can celebrate and honor the life of Little Willie with hope-filled hearts. Our souls are in sorrow over his passing, yet we are joyful in the fullness of life he lived and the assurance of his eternal life. Your sympathy, encouragement, and acts of kindness have been healing to our spirits. May God bless you immensely in the days ahead.
~ With love and gratitude, Little Willie’s Family

I am young but strong enough to withstand anything that comes my way,

I’m old enough to stretch forth

my hands to the creator and cry –

‘Lord here am I…