Samuel "Guerry" Simmons, Sr.

Samuel Guerry Simmons, Sr., known as “Guerry,” passed away on April 20, 2026, at the age of 73. A lifelong Tennessean, Guerry was born on November 10, 1952, in Shelbyville, Tennessee. In 1975, he and his wife, Suzanne, moved to Nashville, where they built a life together and raised their three children.

Guerry earned his Eagle Scout at just 14 years old and served as a page in Congress during his senior year of high school—early reflections of a life marked by leadership and service.

A natural servant leader, he became deeply involved in politics, working as a fund raiser on several senatorial and gubernatorial campaigns. After his political career, Guerry developed a passion for the stock market and built a career in investment management.

Faith was the foundation of Guerry’s life. He loved Jesus, and that love shaped how he showed up—for his family, his church, and anyone in need. He and his wife, Suzanne, were founding members of Christ Presbyterian Church, where he faithfully served for decades beginning with being in the choir. He served as volunteer coordinator for elementary Sunday school for five years, was on the leadership team for Kingdom Seekers Sunday School Class and led in organizing hurricane relief eZorts for Hugo and Andrew and with onsite logistics for CPC’s Belize mission trips. He also served as an Elder and was an Elder Emeritus at his passing.

Guerry was also deeply committed to Scouting. As a longtime leader and Scoutmaster of Troop 55, he invested in the lives of young men with the same intensity and care that defined him. He loved growing the troop—whether through Christmas tree sales or simply showing up, leading, and encouraging others.

He loved to camp, fly fish, and cook, finding joy in preparing meals for family and friends whether it was around a campfire or in the kitchen.

Guerry cared deeply, loved fiercely, and was always willing to step in and help. His presence was strong, his convictions were clear, and his life was rooted in purpose, faith, and service.

He is survived by his wife, Suzanne, and his children: Emily McKinney (Jim), Guerry Simmons, Jr. (Sallie) and Mary Campbell Folmar (Sean), and grandchildren, Patrick, Catherine, Sam, Brents, Ida Louise, Emory, and McCord.

A Memorial Service will be held 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Christ Presbyterian Church, 2323 Old Hickory Blvd, Nashville, 37215.

Visitation with the family will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday following the memorial service at Christ Presbyterian Church.

A Private Family Graveside Service will be held at Larkspur Conservation in Westmoreland, Tennessee.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Christ Presbyterian Church Building Fund. https://pushpay.com/g/christpresoldhickory?fnd=8jugXZBw7cOaIQoFdLokbA&fndv=Lock&r=No&lang=en&src=pcgl

Arrangements are in the care of: Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, 6949 Charlotte Pike, Suite 104, Nashville, TN 37209. (615) 857-9955.  We are proud to be locally owned and operated.