Max "Gibb" L. Simmons, 67, of the McMillan area, was a U.S. Army veteran who enjoyed a career as a heavy equipment operator. Mr. Simmons died at Helen Newberry Joy Hospital in Newberry Saturday, March 10, 2007.

He was born August 9, 1939, in McMillan to LeRoy and Ardath (nee Painter) Simmons. He attended Lakefield Schools and was a veteran of the U.S. Army.

Mr. Simmons was employed at several area firms, mostly operating heavy equipment. He was also employed by the Department of Natural Resources in the Fire Division at the Seney Wildlife Refuge in the late 1970s. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Friends and family say his passion, in the last several years, was the special times he spent with his crew at the Triangle Restaurant and the Bear Den near McMillan.

He is survived by his children and their families, Jeffrey Simmons of McMillan, Darrin and Mandy Simmons of Newberry, and Kimberley Simmons of McMillan; siblings and their families, Betty and Bob Harju, Patsy Clark, Clarrisa Biber, Linda and Andy Ducsay, and Blaine and Marilyn Simmons, all of McMillan; nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Simmons was preceded in death by his parents and an infant daughter, Patricia Ann.

Visitation was Tuesday morning, March 13, followed by a service at 1 p.m. at the Beaulieu Funeral Home with Pastor Paul Williams officiating. Interment will be in Columbus Township Cemetery in the spring. Memorials may be directed to the family.