The Man
Robert Thomas Simmons
February 27, 1985 - August 2, 2009
Send your photos of Robert to contactus@robertsimmonsfoundation.org
His Biography
Robert Thomas Simmons was born on February 27, 1985, in Jacksonville, IL, the son of Thomas Simmons and the late Rebecca Kesinger Simmons. Robert grew up on Lake Jacksonville with his mother, his grandparents, and his extended family.
Robert graduated from Jacksonville High School in 2004. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from MacMurray College in 2008 with a Bachelor of Social Work. At MacMurray, he was awarded the All American Scholar Award and the Richard L. McGuire Award.
Robert was a member of Gates to Glory, a church outside of Murrayville, where he played drums.
Robert peacfully passed away in his sleep on August 2, 2009.
*Extended bio in process
His Passion
Robert had a passion for helping young people. He was employed for four years as an after school program site director for the Boys and Girls Club of Morgan County (formerly 4 Counties for Kids).
He also was a mentor for Big Brother Big Sister for the last three years.
Robert was last employed as a crisis case manager for Midwest Youth Services helping at-risk, homeless and delinquent teenagers. Robert was passionate about and dedicated to helping at-risk youth.
His Work Continues
Robert's legacy lives on in all of the lives that he touched. His work also continues with this foundation. The Robert Simmons Foundation will provide support to at-risk youth in our community with the newly established Robert Simmons Memorial Scholarship.
The scholarships will pay for each child's educational costs for a full year. Sixth grade students will be selected based on parental income, academic grades and exceptional leadership skills.