Burl Eldon Simmons, Jr., 62, passed away at home in Wichita, Kansas, on January 29, 2026. He was born on July 30, 1963, in Amarillo, Texas.

Eldon attended Dodge City Senior High School and proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps as a combat engineer. He completed a tour of duty in Beirut, Lebanon. He always took great pride in his country and the USMC.  Following his military service, Eldon started a career as a mechanic. He played a key role in developing the engine rebuild and remanufactured engine parts division at Abilene Machine in Solomon, Kansas. Eldon later worked as a service manager for Fleet Maintenance and Inland Truck Parts & Service.  In the later chapter of his career, Eldon pursued entrepreneurship and founded Big E's Vapor Shops in Wichita.

Eldon had a lifelong love of dirt track racing, motorcycles, and the most obnoxious color of hot pink.  He was widely known for his strong presence and involvement in the recovery community, where he offered guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support to countless individuals. Eldon had a big, unmistakable presence that matched his larger‑than‑life personality, earning him the affectionate nickname "Big E." The absence of his presence will be felt deeply by all who knew and loved him.

Eldon married Leigh Ann Newlan on June 13, 2014. She survives.

He was preceded in death by his father, Burl Eldon Simmons, Sr.; his mother, Alice Fisher; and his stepmother, Janice Simmons.

Eldon is survived by his wife, Leigh Ann Simmons of Wichita; daughter Jenna (Justin) Giefer of Haven; son, Dalton Newlan of Wichita; and his four grandchildren, Anthony, Ellie, Nicholas, and Isaiah Giefer, all of Haven. He is also survived by brothers; Travis (Cindy) Simmons and Jimmy (Jaime) Barrett; both of Dodge City. Eldon leaves behind many extended family members, friends, and members of the recovery community whose lives he touched.

Cremation has taken place. Graveside services will take place on February 20th, 2026 at 1 pm at the Veterans Cemetery,11560 US Highway 400, Fort Dodge, Kansas. The family invites all to gather and share memories of Eldon following the graveside services at Eisenhower Hall, 101 Pershing St., Fort Dodge, KS. Light refreshments and snacks will be provided.

Military honors will be provided by the US Marine Corps Funeral Honors and the Southwest Kansas Veterans Funeral Honor Guard

The family requests monetary memorials in Eldon's name be made to:
ICT Waymakers, Inc.
Attn:Bonnie
1810 S. Gold, Wichita, KS 67213