Franklin Bruce Simmons III

Franklin Bruce Simmons III, age 74, of Asheboro, North Carolina, passed away on October 15, 2026, at his home.

Franklin was born on September 2, 1952, to Ruth Pauline Simmons and the late Franklin Bruce Simmons II.

A man with a brilliant, inquisitive mind, Franklin was a lifelong scholar. Driven by an endless thirst for knowledge, he earned numerous academic degrees throughout his life, ultimately achieving his Ph.D. in Economics, However he did not stop there, he continued on to get this LLM and JD as well. He seamlessly channeled his profound intellect into a distinguished career as a professor, spending over two decades educating, challenging, and inspiring the next generation of students.

Never one to sit idle, Franklin continued to get his auctioneer license and real estate license then went on to trade the classroom for the countryside upon his retirement. He found tremendous fulfillment in working the land, establishing a farm where he took great pride in cultivating soybeans and other crops. Always eager to master a new skill, his agricultural pursuits soon expanded into apiology. He became a passionate beekeeper, and tending to his hives brought him immense peace and perfectly suited his patient, observant nature.

Beyond his academic and agricultural achievements, Franklin was a steadfast leader in his community. He proudly served as a dedicated member of the Boy Scouts of America for sixty incredible years, guiding countless young men with wisdom, character, and integrity. Above all his accomplishments, he was a devoted family man who cherished the life he shared with his late wife, Pat.

In addition to his father, Franklin Bruce Simmons II, Franklin was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Pat Simmons.

He is survived by his son, Frank Simmons IV; his mother, Ruth Pauline Simmons; his sister, Susan Simmons; his sister-in-law, Barbara Stout; and a host of nieces and nephews.