James Daniel Simmons, known as Jay to most, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2025 at the age of 57 after his short battle of liver and kidney disease.

Born on April 25, 1968, and raised in Oxnard, California, Jay was a proud graduate of Rio Mesa High School, class of 1986.

Jay was a devoted husband to his wife Jamie,\ and a caring father to his children, Logan and Taylor. He is predeceased by his father Waylon Simmons, and his mother Sandy Vandekieft.

Jay’s family was the center of his world, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

A proud veteran, Jay served in the U.S. Air Force from 1988-92, including a deployment to Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Storm. His service to his country instilled in him a sense of duty and pride that he carried throughout his life.

After his military service, Jay dedicated himself to his career at UPS, where he worked tirelessly from 1992-2025.

Known for his strong work ethic, he often put in long hours to provide for his family. However, it was more than just a job for Jay; he loved his work, cherished his colleagues, and most importantly, he valued the relationships he built with his customers, always greeting them with a warm smile and a friendly word.

A true sports enthusiast, Jay was a die-hard fan of the Raiders and Los Angeles Dodgers, and found great joy in chasing the ball on the golf course. Whether cheering for his favorite team or enjoying a round of golf with friends, his passion for sports was evident and infectious.

Jay was a kind-hearted, good-humored man whose laughter and positivity could light up any room. His generosity and spirit touched the lives of everyone he met, and he will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

A celebration of Jay’s life will be held in Oxnard on July 26. If you would like information on his memorial, please contact his sister Geri Simmons Ventura at CelebrateJaySimmons@gmail.com.

Rest in peace, Jay. Your legacy of love, kindness, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew you.