William L. Simmons Jr., 57, of Hayes, died unexpectedly on July 24, 2012.

Billy graduated from Gloucester High School, and was a master welder and designer. He was owner of Bill’s Welding Shop at Ordinary for many years.

He enjoyed NASCAR racing and was an avid fan of Dale Earnhardt Jr. Billy was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He enjoyed good times and loved his family very much. He was a generous and devoted husband, father, son and brother who will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his father, William L. Simmons Sr. and father-in-law, Ronald L. Thomas Sr.

He is survived by his wife, Rhonda Lynne-Thomas Simmons; son, Michael Edward Owens; daughter, Elizabeth Marie Simmons; mother, Joyce E. Simmons; sister, Ellen S. Picardat and husband Baker; brother, Sidney H. Simmons and wife Linda; mother-in-law, Leila Thomas; sisters-in-laws, Paula Crowley and husband David, Allison Thomas; nephews, William B. Picardat, Ronald Thomas III, Logan Crowley; niece, Dakotah S. Mayo, Madalyn Crowley; a very close friend, Frank Haywood who has been a loyal friend to Billy and his family, along with a multitude of close friends.

Funeral services are pending.

Arrangements by Hogg Funeral Home and Crematory, Gloucester Point.