Lawrence "Larry" David Simmons, Sr. (83) beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother was peacefully called to be with his heavenly Father on Monday, March 11th, surrounded by his loving family at his side.

Larry was born in Chicago, Illinois, on August 10, 1940, to Ida Mae Wesley Simmons Young and Samuel Simmons. He moved to Minneapolis when he was 4 years old and attended Clinton Glen Elementary School, Franklin, and Bryant Junior High, graduating from the historic Central High School (South Minneapolis) in 1958. He spoke lovingly of his childhood. Enjoying speed skating at Powderhorn Park, hanging out at his stepfather's and uncle's historic Young Brother's barbershops, dancing at the Phyllis Wheatley house, and keeping up with his older siblings. His family was actively involved in community service work and their faith home, St. Peter's AME. His loving family and tight community were pillars throughout his life. Following the example of his older brothers, Lawrence enlisted in the Navy. After his service, he finished his education, graduating from the University of Minnesota, earning a degree in economics and philosophy. His passion for those subjects was lifelong.

He began his long career in technology management, starting at Control Data, where he developed a reputation for staff development and mentoring. This reputation stayed with him throughout his career. He continued to mentor young professionals in retirement, always with his door open to lend an ear or offer advice. After Control Data, Lawrence thrived working in Governor Perpich's administration as the Assistant Commissioner for Technology and Training. He was a pioneer, providing citizens with access to technology training and jobs. He left the governor's administration to take on a new challenge to strengthen and lead the development and growth of the state's Opportunity Industrialization Centers (OICs).

His leadership of the state's OIC programs was highly regarded. In 1988, he earned Governor Perpich's highest honor, the Key of the State Award, for his work towards "growing and developing employment opportunities for the economically disadvantaged."  He continued to support the OIC organization as a board member and volunteer long past his tenure. He was selected to lead the technology systems at the Minnesota State College and University System (MnSCU) as the Director of Technology, his last role before retirement. During his tenure at MnSCU, his work included overseeing the Y2K project and the development of the university's statewide web. Larry would say the most rewarding part of his work was the training and development of his team. His commitment to the state leaves a lasting legacy, contributing to improving the quality of life for Minnesotans.

He was steadfast in supporting and encouraging his children, unselfishly providing for his family without worrying about himself. He instilled in his children the importance of education, and hard work, and he made sure they had opportunities to develop a range of hobbies and interests. This spirit to embrace learning and opportunities can now be seen in his grandchildren, and he took great pride in supporting and attending their many activities.

His passion for music was a constant throughout his life, especially for jazz and the blues. He embraced his love of music during retirement, taking up piano and voice lessons. He was an active member of the Church of the Risen Savior, celebrating mass and enjoying the choir and study groups. He found lifelong friendships in his men's prayer group.

Larry was a storyteller and was happiest surrounded by his family and friends, sharing stories, demonstrating his card shark abilities, and playing music games. He had lifelong friends and was known to stop everything to take calls with friends from far and wide. He could often be found beautifying his yard with his wife, Ginny, a passion he inherited from his mom. Larry found time to travel in retirement, taking road trips and seeing new parts of the country.

He is survived by his loving wife, Virginia "Ginny,"  and former wife, Myrtis Ingram and their children, sons David (Linda) and Daniel Scott. Daughters, Kym (Daniel), Maria, Gina, and Kristina. Grandchildren, Patrick, Matthew, James, Olivia, Brianna, Christopher, and Benjamin.  And an extended stepfamily.

Larry was the youngest of five siblings; he is survived by his sister, Dr. Lorraine Taylor, his brother Wesley Simmons (Donna), and many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father Samuel Simmons, mother Ida Mae Wesley Young, stepfather John Young, and brothers Samuel Simmons Sr. and Kenneth Simmons.

Larry's strength, support, and unconditional love will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life will take place at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at the Church of the Risen Savior (1501 East CR 42) in Burnsville. Visitation is from 10 to 11 a.m. prior to the service. Interment: Fort Snelling.

Condolences: whitefuneralhomes.com