S 571 — Judge Donald Simons, retirement

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16, 2025) - South Carolina Legislature Online South Carolina General Assembly126th Session, 2025-2026Bill 571Indicates Matter StrickenIndicates New Matter(Text matches printed bills.

Document has been reformatted to meet World Wide Web specifications.)                 A senate RESOLUTION   TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND THE HONORABLE DONALD JEFFREY SIMONS, MAGISTRATE JUDGE FOR RICHLAND COUNTY, UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE BENCH AND TO WISH HIM CONTINUED SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS IN ALL HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

  Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate have learned that the Honorable Donald Jeffrey Simons, magistrate judge for Richland County, will begin a well-deserved retirement on June 30, 2025, after a distinguished legal career of many years in the Palmetto State;

and   Whereas, born on July 30, 1952, in Eastover, Judge Simons was the eleventh child of Constinee and Christabel Simons.

Growing up in a large family instilled in him a strong sense of responsibility, hard work, and the importance of community.

He graduated from Weber High School in Eastover, where his early education laid the foundation for his future accomplishments.

After high school, he earned an associate degree in business administration from Midlands Technical College and further advanced his career by obtaining a bachelor's degree in construction management from Ashford University.

His educational background equipped him with the skills necessary to excel in the construction industry;

and   Whereas, in 1977, he became president and owner of DJ Simons Construction Company Inc., serving as a general contractor for various commercial, industrial, and residential projects until 1994.

His innovative approach and pioneering spirit made him a respected figure in the construction community.

In addition to his business pursuits, he is deeply involved in civic engagement and community service, and his commitment and contributions to his community led to his appointment to serve as a commissioner for the South Carolina State Fire Commission, as well as for the Richland and Lexington County Airport Commission;

and   Whereas, in 1992, he was appointed by the South Carolina General Assembly as a magistrate judge for Richland County, where he has served as the Eastover magistrate.

He moreover served as chief magistrate of Richland County for eight years.

He is known for his impartiality, fairness, and dedication to justice, characteristics that have earned the respect of colleagues and community members alike;

and   Whereas, his leadership extends beyond the courtroom.

He is the former president of the Lower Richland Development Council and held memberships in several prestigious organizations, including the South Carolina Builders Association, National Homebuilders Association, Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, and National Judges Association.

One of his notable contributions includes leading the operations and oversight of the planning, research, and construction of the Richland County Decker Center, which serves as the home for the Richland County Magistrate Central Court, Richland County Sheriff's Department Substation, and Richland County Master in Equity Office;

and   Whereas, this man of faith, a lifelong member of Antioch AME Zion Church, is also a family-oriented man.

He finds strong support in his wife, Susan, and their five children and seven grandchildren.

His passion for fishing, developed at a young age with his father, remains a cherished pastime.

Throughout his life, he has been recognized as an innovative leader, a dedicated entrepreneur, and an advocate for civic engagement and community service.

His unwavering commitment to his faith, family, community, and work has made him a respected figure and a leader in the Lower Richland community, where his legacy continues to inspire others;

and   Whereas, the Senate is grateful for the legacy of leadership and jurisprudence Judge Simons has bestowed on his home State and appreciates his long and enduring service.

His admirers, who are legion, wish him well as he enters retirement and trust he will find much enjoyment in the more leisurely pace of the days ahead.

Now, therefore,   Be it resolved by the Senate:

  That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, recognize and commend the Honorable Donald Jeffrey Simons, magistrate judge for Richland County, upon the occasion of his retirement from the bench and wish him continued success and happiness in all his future endeavors.

  Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the Honorable Donald Jeffrey Simons.

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