William Holcomb Simmons

William Simmons was a man who, in all things, looked after his family and took care of them beyond all expectation, even after illness made his goal difficult. I know his family are missing him, but are also comforted that he rests in peace after long toil.

Crossing the Bar

Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,

But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.

Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;

For though from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crossed the bar.

--Alfred, Lord Tennyson

For many years Pasadena Little Theatre audiences enjoyed the many productions that Bill directed, but Bill went beyond the artistic and entertainment aspects of community theatre. He got in there and did the hard work that kept the theatre going and growing which helped to establish a strong base for future generations! Thanks Bill!

William Simmons was a remarkable man who loved his family. I know they will miss him. May they find comfort knowing he has found peace.

"The best portion of a good man's life,--
His little nameless, unremembered acts
Of kindness and of love."
--William Wordsworth
A fitting tribute by a namesake.

As a board member of Pasadena Little Theatre, I will miss Bill's leadership and advice. His and Jo's years of service to the theatre were monumental in it's long-running success. I know I relied upon Bill's advice many times after I became Business Manager and our policies and procedures still follow the guidelines he created. He will be missed. I extend my condolences to Jo and all the Simmons family.

Bruce Blifford

When I first joined PLT in 1974, it was on Tulip Street and Bill was there, everywhere. You couldn't be an active member without knowing him; and hearing and seeing his innummerable contributions. He helped build PLT to what it is today. We owe him so much and he will always be in our hearts and memories. Sharing PLT and all the good memories of him and Jo will be a constant highlight of my life. Rest in peace, dear soul.

Bill was a tremendous influence and model for so many people through his involvement at Pasadena Little Theatre where I had the great honor to know him. He was a man of integrity and passion. His devotion and love for Jo was always so obvious and an inspiration to me. Even now, there is never a board meeting at PLT when I don't think of Bill and how he would to react to financial decisions and discussions. When I think of Bill, I remember his crew cut, his sandals, his funny sense of humor but especially his loyalty and commitment to the things he loved. My thoughts and prayers are with Jo and the family at this sad time.