Dock Samuel Simmons II Obituary: Sam Simmons Remembered for Family, Public Service, and Generosity in West Virginia

Dock Samuel Simmons II Obituary: Sam Simmons Remembered for Family, Public Service, and Generosity in West Virginia

Dock Samuel Simmons II, affectionately known as Sam, passed away on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. Remembered as charismatic, athletic, and larger than life, Sam made a lasting impression on those who knew him through his easygoing personality, devotion to family, commitment to public service, and generosity toward causes close to his heart.

His life brought together a love of basketball and sports, a 32-year career at the Maryland Correctional Institution in Hagerstown, Maryland, active community involvement, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. From golf and daily walks to working on cars and cheering for his favourite teams, Sam embraced life in his own way.

For his family and friends, his passing marks the loss of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose stories, laughter, and unmistakable personality will continue to be remembered.

Dock Samuel Simmons II: Personal Details
Detail Information
Full name Dock Samuel Simmons II
Known as Sam
Date of birth August 5, 1946
Date of death October 13, 2026
Age 80
Birthplace Johnson City, Tennessee
Grew up in Newell, West Virginia
Home Shepherdstown, West Virginia
Second home Bonita Springs, Florida
Wife Patricia Ann “Patti” Simmons
Daughters Trinsy Stone and Scarlett Truong
Sons-in-law Robert Stone and Quoc Truong
Grandchildren Fallon, Faith, Hayden, Isaac, and Tybee
Career 32 years at Maryland Correctional Institution
Positions Captain and Tactical Commander
Basketball Oak Glen Golden Bears and Shepherd University Rams
Community service Cystic Fibrosis Foundation supporter and fundraiser
Fraternal affiliation Masonic fraternity in Shepherdstown; Past Master
Interests Golf, walking, cars, the beach, and sports
Parents Dock and Velma Simmons
Sister Karen Staley
Final arrangements Cremation; no immediate service planned
Early Life and Athletic Achievements
Born on August 5, 1946, in Johnson City, Tennessee, Sam grew up in Newell, West Virginia. His athletic abilities became apparent at an early age, and basketball soon became an important part of his life.

He played for the Oak Glen Golden Bears before continuing his basketball journey with the Shepherd University Rams. These experiences helped establish a lifelong connection to sports, competition, and the communities associated with his teams.

Even after his playing days, Sam remained an enthusiastic supporter of Shepherd University athletics. He also followed the Pittsburgh Steelers, maintaining a loyal connection to the football team throughout his life.

Sports offered Sam more than entertainment. They were part of his identity and a lasting connection to his younger years. His enthusiasm for his favourite teams remained one of the interests that family and friends could share with him.

A 32-Year Career at Maryland Correctional Institution
Sam dedicated 32 years of his professional life to the Maryland Correctional Institution in Hagerstown, Maryland. During his career, he served as a Captain and Tactical Commander before retiring.

His long tenure represented a substantial commitment to a demanding field of public service. Working in corrections requires responsibility, discipline, and the ability to respond to challenging situations. Sam’s career became an important part of his personal story, reflecting decades of professional dedication.

After retiring, he was able to devote more time to his family, personal interests, travel between West Virginia and Florida, and the activities he enjoyed.

Although his professional responsibilities formed a significant part of his life, those who knew Sam also remember the person beyond his job title: a man who valued friendship, enjoyed a relaxed pace when possible, and made room for the interests that brought him happiness.

Life in Shepherdstown and Bonita Springs
Sam made his home in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, while embracing the lifestyle of a snowbird. He spent part of each year at his second home in Bonita Springs, Florida, enjoying the warmer weather and opportunities to spend time outdoors.

The two places offered different surroundings for a life built around family, friends, recreation, and familiar routines. In West Virginia, he remained connected to his home community. In Florida, he could enjoy the sunshine, walk along the beach, and make the most of the coastal setting.

Daily walks were among his favourite activities, whether close to home in West Virginia or under the Florida sun. He also enjoyed golf, a pastime that offered both recreation and opportunities to spend time with others.

His love of cars extended to working on them, allowing him to pursue an interest that had become part of his everyday life. He appreciated simple pleasures, including a cold beer after a day outdoors, and preferred to enjoy life on his own terms.

These details help paint a picture of Sam beyond his career and accomplishments: an active man who appreciated independence, outdoor activities, and the freedom to spend time doing what he loved.

Generosity and Support for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
One of the most meaningful aspects of Sam’s legacy was his dedication to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. He supported the organisation through fundraising and gave considerable time and resources to its mission of helping people affected by cystic fibrosis.

His commitment reflected a desire to make a positive difference beyond his immediate circle. Supporting a charitable cause requires more than good intentions; it often involves sustained effort, personal involvement, and a willingness to encourage others to contribute.

For Sam, the foundation represented a cause close to his heart. His fundraising work demonstrated how personal values can become practical acts of generosity and community support.

His family and friends will remember this part of his life alongside his athletic interests, professional service, and devotion to those closest to him. It remains an important expression of the care and commitment that shaped his legacy.