William Alfred Simms

William Alfred Simms, known to many as Bill, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026, in the comfort of his home in West Chester, Ohio. Born on February 27, 1942, in Beckley, West Virginia, Bill's life was marked by dedication, professional excellence, and a warm wit that endeared him to his community of family and friends. 

Bill grew up in Camden-on-Gauley, West Virginia, where he was affectionately known as "Sonny." From a young age, he displayed a strong work ethic; as a high school student, he worked in the coal mining field to earn money for college and was an intern with Long-Airdox Mining Company. He was a committed member of the United Mine Workers. His educational journey culminated in earning a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from West Virginia University. During his college years, he was involved in ROTC. Bill was a registered Professional Engineer and shared his expertise by teaching engineering classes at IUPUI. 

His professional career was distinguished by his long-standing tenure at Ford Motor Company. Beginning as an engineer, Bill contributed his talents across four different plants, ultimately retiring on December 31, 1996, as Manager of Powertrain Engineering. His commitment to innovation and leadership in the automotive industry left a lasting impact. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Bill cherished woodworking, channeling his skill and passion into building custom homes. His attention to detail and ability to build homes from the ground up became his full time career in retirement, completing several new homes. A proud amateur pilot, he found joy and accomplishment in flying, demonstrating a lifelong pursuit of learning and adventure. This lead to motorcycles, boats, skiing and more… 

Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Kathryn "Kathy" (nee Ruffner) Simms; daughters Laura (Matt) Richardson and Amy (Ken) McLain; grandchildren Noah J. (Dacey) Richardson, Natalie A. (Calvin) Owen, Matthew J. McLain, and Megan K. McLain; and great-grandchildren Ada Joy Richardson and Charlotte Eve Owen. He is also survived by his brother Ross Patrick Simms; sisters-in-law Daisy Simms and Rosey (Rick) Miller; and brother-in-law David (Ellin) Ruffner. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rodney Lewis Simms and Rena Violet (nee Udy) Simms, and his brother Rodney L. Simms, Jr. 

William Alfred Simms’ life was one of accomplishment, dedication, and community. His wit and warmth left an indelible mark on those who knew him, and his legacy as an engineer, educator, and family man will be remembered with respect and affection. 

A Memorial Gathering of Family and Friends will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the Celebration of Life Service at 12:00 p.m. at Mueller Funeral Home, located at 6791 Tylersville Rd, Mason, Ohio, 45040. Family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew Bill are invited to join in honoring his remarkable life and contributions. 

If desired, memorial donations may be directed to The Red Cross.