HIGH POINT — Furniture and fabric industry veteran Charles Harriss Simmons died Dec. 19, 2024 at the age of 94.
Born in High Point on Feb. 2, 1930, to William and Helen Simmons, he was known to many as “Seemore,” a nickname he earned after winning a seeing contest in first grade. Simmons graduated from Davidson College in 1953 and then began a lifelong career in furniture and fabric sales and later managed family-held furniture showrooms and other real estate interests.
In recognition of his contributions to the city and the international home furnishings industry, Simmons was honored by the String and Splinter Club, The City Club of High Point, with an Outstanding Achievement Award in 2010.
Known as the unofficial mayor of Main Street, Simmons promoted his hometown of High Point at hundreds of furniture-related events, offering visitors a driving tour of the city’s home furnishings highlights.
Preceded in death by his wife Elizabeth and son Robert, Simmons is survived by three children, eight grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life event is being held 4-7 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, in The Commons at Congdon Yards located at 410 W. English Rd., High Point.