Robert Earl Simmons
Robert Earl Simmons, 54, was a lifelong resident of the McDavid and Century area who worked in construction. He died on April 30, 2014, when a suspected natural gas explosion destroyed the lower floors of the Escambia County jail, where he was being held; he was one of two people killed. His daughter described him as a kind, big-hearted man who loved fishing and spending time with his family, especially his grandkids, and he was survived by his mother, children, siblings and grandchildren. The explosion was described as suspected rather than confirmed, and the manner of his death is listed as pending.
Cause of death, as reported: Cause not yet determined. A record of the death describes a suspected natural gas explosion that destroyed the lower floors of the Escambia County jail, but no named source gives an official cause or manner of death.