Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

I was born 20 years after my Grandfather was killed. Wish I could have known him. I heard a lot about him from my Dad. I visit his grave every Christmas.

Grandson William Simmons

November 25, 2022

Clarence E Simmons was my grandfather. I am the daughter of his oldest child. Hazel Carter Simmons

Grandchild
Family

February 4, 2022

I am learning more about my family history and I've been so saddened to learn the story of my great-great grandfather John Henry's brother Clarence. My granddaddy still remembers hearing this story as a young boy when it happened. God bless all the family this young man left behind.

Sara Simmons
Great grand neice

August 20, 2021

Deputy Sheriff Simmons rest in peace.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 28, 2019

This is my great grandfather's brother (great grand uncle?). Been delving into family history a fair bit lately and it's a sad story, but also someone of whom we can be proud. I find it fitting that he is still honored today.

Lloyd Odell Simmons III

Lloyd Odell Simmons III
great grand nephew

April 25, 2015

This is my great grandfather...Even though I never got the honor of knowing you, I have heard many heroic stories about you and have a very honorable picture of you in my home, and also I have noticed your picture in the lobby of the Roanoke County jailhouse...What a brave man, and all of your children turned out to be such special and loving people...Only one remains alive...Rest in peace, great grandfather....with great grandmother and children...

Trish Trent
Great Grandaughter

July 19, 2014

Even though I never did get to meet you. I was honored to wear that same patch on my uniform for 8 1/2 years. I took much pride in being a Deputy Sheriff. Thank you for setting the stage for Deputies that wore that same uniform.

Rhonda Wickline
Security Officer
Carilion Clinic

September 11, 2012

Your heroism and service is honored today, the one 76th anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

April 17, 2012

Read "Spirits of Just Men" by Charles D. Thompson Jr. which discusses this and other murders involving the Moonshine conspiracy in Franklin County in the 30's

Retired Detective Roger Harris
Roanoke City Police Department

April 1, 2012

Clarence Simmons was my grandmother's cousin. I am writing a family history book and would really like to know who killed Clarence. I have heard conflicting reports

Linda - a relative from Virginia

February 18, 2012

What a tragic case. This officer leaving behind a pregnant wife and eight children. The other miscarriage of justice is his killers, were only charged with second degree murder. May Dep. Simmmons rest in peace!

G. Wayne Pike
United States marshal., retired

August 1, 2011

Each night my shift dedicates our watch to a fallen brother or sister. Tonight we honor Deputy Sheriff Clarence Edward Simmons who was killed 68 years ago today. Deputy Simmons today we honor your sacrifice and legacy. You will never be forgotten.
"People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because brave men stand ready to do violence on their behalf."
- Steve Robinson, Seal Team One, 1971-1973

Sergeant J.L. Slaughter
Radford City Department of Police

April 17, 2004

Fellow Deputy, though you past long ago, you are not forgotten.

Deputy Jerry Hooker
Roanoke County Sheriffs Office

December 27, 2003