Kenneth Eugene Simmons, 75, of New London, died Wednesday, October 4, 2023. He was born May 23, 1948 to Virgil Berthel and Henrietta Lee Simmons Hennessee. He married Virginia Ronk Bench and they later divorced.
He attended New London High School before serving in the United States Army stationed in Panama. He was a member of New London Christian Church. For thirty-five years he worked as a draftsman at CECO and retired from IAAP in Middletown.
Kenny loved tinkering in his garage, woodworking, house remodeling, keeping his yard pristine, going to Hardee’s for coffee with the gang, and visiting pawn shops; but mostly enjoyed raising his twin granddaughters and spending time with them and his great-granddaughters.
Survivors include his granddaughters that he raised; Annie (Josh) Pence of Red Oak and Kaity Bench of Danville; great-granddaughters Kaidyn and Makenzie; his loving partner of nearly fifteen years, Linda Peterson of New London and her children and grandchildren; sister Connie Tarrence of New London; nieces and nephews, Mike Raines, Jodi Jackson, Jana Fallon, Ken Bunkley, and Mike Bunkley; and his beloved dog, Otis. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Joann and Carol.
Visitation at Elliott Chapel, New London, will begin at noon on October 16, 2023 with the family receiving friends from 5:00 – 7:00 PM. A memorial has been established for the New London High School Industrial Technology class. Online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.