Harold Simmons

Harold Leslie “Les” Simmons, 87, of Colonial Heights, passed away Thursday, January 13, 2022. He was born in Matoaca, Virginia on November 11, 1934 to the late Harold C. and Gladys N. Simmons and was preceded in death by his brother, James Simmons. Les was a proud Virginia Tech Hokie and member of the Corps of Cadets. Upon college graduation, Les served his country in the United States Army. After receiving an honorable discharge, he began his career as an architect specializing in airports, hospitals, and schools. In addition, Les authored a widely adopted architectural course textbook used in nearly 200 colleges and universities. He also wrote many fiction novels and short stories. He had a passion for writing and always had a story to tell. He was an incredible artist who expressed his creativity through the creation of beautiful artwork made of wood that adorn the walls of his home and many others. Les also enjoyed many years of country couples dancing with his wife and friends. Mr. Simmons is survived by his beloved wife of 22 years, Nancy Filegar Simmons; daughter, Sharon Simmons; brother, Daniel “Danny” Simmons (Patricia); stepchildren, Joni Graham Smolinsky (Joe), Rob Filegar (Beth), David Filegar (Sharon), Cathy Lamantia (Vince); grandchildren, Joey Smolinsky, Jessica Galvin, Nathan and Emily Graham, Ryan, Neal, Robbie, Caroline, Jacob, John Thomas, Josiah, and Jared Filegar, and McKoy, Kyle, and Luke Lamantia; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, January 21, 2022 at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Home, 2033 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. Following visitation, a procession will be led to Sunset Memorial Park, Chester for a 2:30 p.m. graveside service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Colonial Heights Public Library,1000 Yacht Basin Drive, Colonial Heights, VA 23834.