"Johnny" was born to the late LeRoy and Mozella Simmons on April 23, 1952, in Baltimore, Maryland. He is the second of four children. John was known to be very protective of his siblings.
He was very neat and meticulous about his clothing and his car. He was known to be a sharp dresser at ALL times. Even his T-shirts were crisp. He always presented himself as a total gentleman - complete with cufflinks, ties, and accessories. His cars were always immaculate and sharp. Even as a child, he kept his side of the room neat and clean.
At Carter G. Woodson Elementary School, he was adored as a vibrant student. He was a drummer in the school band. He enjoyed chess and jazz. He graduated from Forest Park High, where he was an exceptional football and lacrosse player. It was here that a chance meeting introduced him to the love of his life, Patricia. They would later marry and have two children of their own.
He loved art. Johnathan's talent was seen as early as elementary school. At an early age, Jonathan enjoyed using his hands for artistic purposes. He was a true artist at heart, enjoying sketching freehand and also using draftsmen's tools. In 8th grade, his teacher gave him a set of tools as an award for his outstanding draftsmanship. He took private classes in drawing and painting in high school and after. As an avid music lover, Johnathan owned instruments such as a flute, guitar, and a harmonica which he lovingly gave to his great-nephew Jawan. He and his brothers collected jazz albums throughout the years. One of his favorite musicians was Pharoah Sanders, a notable saxophonist.
Johnathan was employed by Baltimore Gas and Electric from age 17 until 2012. He was well­ loved by his coworkers and always seen as a wise source of advice and fine leadership. During this time, he was a mentor at Bentalou Elementary School from 2001- 2002. At his retirement, he received his own Ravens jersey with the number "42" for his many years of service with the company.
Johnathan gave his heart to the Lord in 2019, the year he was diagnosed with cancer. He was our family's Tower of Strength. Through his salvation, Jesus made him even stronger. All of us will deeply miss his presence.
Johnathan is preceded in death by his parents Mozella and Leroy Simmons, and his Aunts Belle, Izetta, Helen, and Freda. He has left to cherish his memory, his devoted wife Patricia; his children, Johnathan, Jr. and Rachel; his grandchildren, Jade and Johnathan III. His Uncle Roosevelt Simmons; his brothers and sister, Larry. Steven, and Carolyn; his nephews and nieces, Larry, Jr. Shanita, Terri, Steven, Jr., Gavin, Dishelle, Nicole, Tia, Terry, Jr., Towanda,