John Christy Simon

John "Jack" Christy Simon peacefully left this life at 4:10am on Tuesday, September 19, 2017. He was born February 15, 1951 to Lucia Robb Simon and Robert Paul Simon in Urbana, Illinois. He attended Bottenfield Grade School, Edison Middle School, and Centennial High School, graduating in 1969. He was a master painting contractor and owned and operated Simon & Simon with his brother Steve for over 40 years. He was preceded in death by his father (Robert P. Simon), step-father (Edmund M. Collins), and grandparents. Jack is survived by his wife, Mary Fay Beck; his daughter, Christy Simon Whitt (Scott); son, Colin Allen Simon; step-son, Austin Dean Beck; grandson, Lukas Garrison Whitt; granddaughter, Sutton Cate Whitt; brother, Steve Simon (Lori); brother, Bill Simon (Susan); and his loyal furry buddy, Jasper Simon. Jack also had countless nieces and nephews, family, and friends whom he treasured as family. Jack was a lover of Illini sports, live music, gardening, and Bud Light. He was an analytical thinker and architectural genius. His greatest pride and joy was his "Grampy's Girl," Sutton Cate. The family would like to extend their deepest thanks to Christie Clinic Oncology, Dr. Stuart King, and Harbor Light Hospice for the excellent care, friendships, and generosity received. Memorial contributions may be made in Jack's name to the Champaign Parks Foundation for a tree to be planted in his honor along the Robert P. Simon Trail. In true Jack Simon style, a Celebration of Life will be held from 1 to 5pm on Saturday, September 23 at Lake of the Woods Pavilion at Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve, Mahomet. "The Legend" will live on in our hearts forever.