Wayne County Press
1947

William Wesley Simms, M.D. prominent St. Louis, Missouri physician, died in Barnes Hospital Monday, June 9, 1947. Death resulted from the effects of an automobile accident in St. Louis, March 23, 1947.

Dr. Simms was the son of the late Henry P. and Martha Simms of this city.  He was a graduate of Hayward College and the American Medical College of St. Louis, Missouri, and has practiced medicine in St Louis for 35 years.

The remains were taken to the Kriegshauser's Mortuary, S. Kingshighway where the body laid in state until Thursday morning.  Funeral services were held at the Wagoner Methodist Church by his pastor for 12 years, Rev. Lester Merrit, at 2 o'clock P.M.  Masonic rites by Pilgrim Masonic Lodge of St. Louis. Interment in Hiram Park,  (Masonic) cemetery.

Dr. Simms was a continuous member of the Fairfield Lodge A.F. &A.M. for about 43 years.

Dr. Simms was united in marriage to Minnie B. Lecroy, June 19, 1895. To this union four children were born: Mrs. Glen Wiegman, St. Louis, MO, Mrs. Mable Mather, New York, N.Y., William H. Simms, University City, MO, and Carroll W. Simms, Clayton, MO.

He was united in marriage to Mary Ethel Reed of St. Louis, MO. Aug. 31, 1922.  To this union three children were born,   Mrs. Mary Ethel Steward, St. Louis, MO, Charlotte Jean Simms, and William Simms, Jr. of St. Louis, MO.

The deceased leaves to mourn their loss his widow, Mary Ethel Simms, his seven children, one step-daughter, Mrs. Stacia Bean of St. Louis, ten grandchildren, one great-grandchild, five sisters, Mrs. Clara Finley, Fairfield, IL, Mrs. Velma Scott,
Geff, IL, Mrs. Della Swan, Fairfield, IL, Mrs. Ethel Elliott, Albion, IL, Mrs. Fannie Bonebrake, Salem, MO, Mrs. Jessie Betts, San Benito, TX.  All five sisters attended the funeral.