Elmer Leroy Simmons, Jr., 61, affectionately known by his family as 'Ubbie', was a very special born September 16, 1954 in Kansas City, Missouri. He was born autistic, Ubbie had just as many normal characteristics as any other child growing up. Autistic children growing up into adulthood develop strong senses in various areas. Ubbie had a keen sense of hearing and could understand directions very well; his challenge came with walking. He wasn't one that would take a stroll up or down the block, he preferred to run like he had wings and the wind was carrying him. His speed was unbelievable. Ubbie loved music. You would often hear him singing the chorus to popular songs. He learned how to ride a bike, knowing his way through the neighborhood. Ubbie had favor with the owner of the corner store so he would run down to get whatever sweet he desired that day. The owner didn't mind because he knew that his father would take care of the bill. He would often try to do things he saw his sisters doing like laundry or making a snack. Ubbie loved foods, his favorites being KFC fried chicken and milk shakes from Dairy Queen. He also enjoyed Oreo cookies, orange soda, and ranch flavored Doritos. When going to his favorite places, he'd get so excited that his loud laughter would fill room. Ubbie was content with a plain white sheet of paper and a number two pencil. He'd sit at the table and write his name and the number nine. That was very joyful for him. Ubbie loved his family and will be deeply missed. He is no longer autistic. He is in the arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Ubbie was preceded in death by his father, Elmer Simmons, Sr.; paternal grandparents, Tom and Mattie Simmons; maternal grandparents, John and Arlether Gardner. He leaves to always cherish his memory: his mother, Madgeline Simmons; two sisters, Barbara Weaver and Joyce Hill; two uncles, Elton Simmons and Don Hawkins (Linda); six aunts, Betty Billiard, Erma Yarbrough, Vera Gardner, Donna Holland, Annie English and Margaret Canada; two nephews, Vance Weaver and Aaron Weaver; one niece, Nichole Wall (Calvin) and Jhere Rowland; one great nephew, Dominic; three great nieces, Jasmine, Imani and Makenzie; a great host of cousins and friends. Funeral services will be Saturday, July 23, 1:00 p.m. at Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Interment XII Gates Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at the chapel. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.