Wilmer "Bud" Ward Simmers
Wilmer Ward "Bud" Simmers, Jr., 85, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 16, 2026 at VMRC, surrounded by family.
He was born on April 15, 1941 and was the son of Wilmer W. Simmers and Eva Mae (Trobaugh) Simmers, who proceeded him in death. He graduated from Turner Ashby High School in Dayton, Virginia in 1959. In 1961, he married his loving wife, Dorothy (Glick) Simmers, who survives. They were married for 65 wonderful years.
Bud is survived by two children, Cheryl Harmon (Lee) and Alan Simmers; three grandchildren, Colton Harmon, Tyler Simmers and Matthew Simmers; a brother, Gary Simmers (Linda); three sisters, Shirley Baker, Judy Swope, and Wilda Dyer. Numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 2 brothers-in-law, Bill Baker and Mike Dyer.
Bud proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corp. He was an entrepreneur who operated Office Equipment from 1962 to 1978. In 1979, he founded Office Products, Inc. in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Since that time, Bud and the company has remained an important part of the community, making a lasting contribution to the area and the people it serves.
He enjoyed traveling to all fifty states and seven continents. While Bud was at home, he enjoyed farming, motorcycle riding, and woodworking. With his creativity and talents, he gifted each grandchild with an elaborate wooden toy every year. Bud was greatly interested in military history and enjoyed collecting firearms, swords, knives and WWII artifacts.
He was a friend to all, near and far, loved by all and will never be forgotten. Bud would do anything for anybody. Having a great sense of humor, he enjoyed laughter, practical jokes and pranks, but most of all, he loved his wife, children and grandchildren.
A visitation will be held for family and friends on Sunday, September 20, 2026 from 5-7 PM at Johnson Funeral & Cremation Service in Bridgewater.
A service celebrating Bud's life will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, September 21st at the funeral home, with Chaplain Dave Kite officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Crawford Cemetery.
We would like to give a special thanks to BJ McDorman, and Wendy Showalter, and Legacy Hospice for their compassionate care.
In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to either Legacy Hospice, 2322 Blue Stone Hills Drive, Suite 220, Harrisonburg, VA 22801 or Alzheimer's Association, 355 Rio Road West, Suite 102, Charlottesville, VA 22901.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at johnsonfs.com.
