Gilbert F. Simmons, 98, of Vero Beach, passed away on Saturday, December 29, 2012 at the VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach.

Mr. Simmons was born December 30, 1914 in New Bedford, MA. He had been a resident of Vero Beach for 15 years, coming from Taunton, MA.

He served in the United States Navy during WWII.

He established the Simmons Insurance Agency in 1964, and sold the business in 1984 when he retired.

He was of the Catholic faith, and attended Saint John of the Cross.

Gilbert was the past commander and treasure of his VFW post. He volunteered at the Brockton, Massachusetts Veterans Hospital. He served as the past president and treasure of the Italian Club, and was the past president of the Sons of Italy. He was a lifetime member of the Benevolent & Protective Order of the Elks.

Survivors include his wife of 18 years, Geraldine Starke Simmons; sons, Gilbert L. Simmons and Richard A. Simmons, both of Taunton, MA; brother, Leonard Simmons of Tequesta; three stepsons; three stepdaughters; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Genevieve Simmons.

A memorial mass will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 4, 2012 at Saint John of the Cross Catholic Church in Vero Beach.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the VNA Hospice House at 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32960.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home and Crematory in Vero Beach. Online condolences may be sent at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com.