Philetus S. Simms

Philetus Swift Simms (Phil) was called home to his heavenly rest on April 30, 2023 and is now with his loved ones and friends who have gone before him. Phil is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Deborah; his children, Aaron (Melissa), Matthew (Mayra), and Allison (Robert) Parmiter; and his grandchildren Marisabel, Robbie, Diego, Kyle, and Tessa.

He is also survived by his brother, Leon F. Simms Jr. (Sandy), his sister Madeleine (Wendell) Grayson, his brother-in-law, Fabian Cambron; his Aunt, Sr. Catherine Barber; and also many wonderful nephews, nieces, great nephews and nieces.

Phil was proceeded in death by his parents Leon F. Simms and Delena (Barber) Simms Brooks; his brothers John Barber Simms and Alexander Simms; and his sisters, Florence Simms Cambron, and Gail Simms Ogburn, as well as Gail’s husband James Ogburn.

Phil was born in Springfield, KY on January 10, 1941. His love for his Kentucky roots ran strong and deep. He revered being an alumnus of his high school, St. Joe Prep in Bardstown, KY, and his alma mater the University of Kentucky. He was a proud, lifelong Eagle and Wildcat! He was an avid Kentucky sports fan and, to his great honor, was named a Kentucky Colonel. He received a Master’s Degree in Botany from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.

One of Phil’s greatest passions was teaching, where he impacted countless young lives for over 50 years. Blessed with an incomparable voice, he taught and mentored many outstanding students and coached terrific athletes at Oak Hills High School for 37 years. He later had the opportunity to teach at Ryle High School in Union, Kentucky for 13 years, and subsequently substitute taught for 5 more years. He cherished the many friendships he forged at both campuses. Phil enriched all our lives with his gift of gardening. He not only taught science but put his botany background into practice, growing flowers, vegetables, and all kinds of different plants that he liked to share with his neighbors. He also had a great love for birds, Kentucky bourbon and music. He was a caring husband, father, and loyal friend. He will always be remembered as a man of great faith and one of the most courageous people we have ever known.

Visitation will be held at Radel Funeral Home on Friday, June 16th from 5:30-7:30pm. Mass will be held in his honor at 11:00 am on June 17th at Our Lady of Victory Church (810 Neeb Rd).

In lieu of flowers Phil’s wishes were to support the Oak Hills Education Association, Maslow’s Army or Matthew 25 Ministries.