On Thursday afternoon, October 2, 2025, Senior Police Officer James “Jimmy” Simons answered his final call. 43 years old, Jimmy courageously battled cancer for six years. He passed away peacefully at home in Jefferson, GA, surrounded by the love of his family.
Jimmy was born on New Years Day 1982. He grew up in Woodville, GA and was salutatorian of the 2000 graduating class of Bethel Christian School. Jimmy furthered his education at the University of Georgia where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English. He exemplified remarkable tenacity by working to finance his studies without accepting the aid of grants or funding.
This same independent spirit followed him throughout the rest of his life. Jimmy completed the Northeast Georgia Police Academy and gained employment with the University of Georgia Police Department. Despite questioning if he had made the correct career choice at first, he fell in love with his job and served the UGA Police Department for 20 years, working his last shift just a few weeks prior to his death.
In recognition of his outstanding commitment, Jimmy was honored to receive over twenty awards, including the Uniformed Officer of the Year eight times; received the Command Staff Award twice; earned top distinction of the Police Department’s Overall Employee of the Year four times. Derrick Gregory and Jimmy were presented a Medal of Valor by former Chief Jimmy Williamson for their heroic action of running into a burning fraternity house, which resulted in all twenty two residents being saved. Their brave action also earned them the Governor’s Public Safety Award which was presented by Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue.
He never missed an opportunity to pull a prank on someone or make people laugh. His most proud accomplishment was his family. Jimmy was a dedicated husband and he devoted himself to being the best father his two daughters could ever have. Countless hours were spent playing together, participating in the yearly family pumpkin carving competitions, and trick or treating. Each year, he looked forward to silently competing with his neighbors for the best Halloween yard decorations.
Rest easy Jimmy, we’ll continue the watch.
