Earl R. Simmons, 84, of Malta, passed away on Thurs, Oct. 14, 2021 at his residence.  He was born on Jan. 18, 1937 in Bowling Green, Ky to the late Ezra and Virginia Stones Simmons.  He retired from the U.S. Air Force and then worked as a ground's keeper for the Wheatland Cemetery in Wheatland, Ca.  He is survived by 2 step-sons, Donald Moore of Chapel Hill, Nc and Donald Nicholson of Malta.  A caring cremation is taking place at his wishes by the Matheney Funeral Home in McConnelsville.  To send a note of condolence to the family go to www.matheneyfh.com