James P. Simmons, 88, passed away on August 7, 2013. Jim attended the University of New Mexico, and received his MBA from the Harvard Business School in 1947. He served as Lt. (jg) in the U.S. Navy from 1943-1946. After serving in executive positions at First State Bank in Monahans, TX and Commercial Bank and Trust Company in Midland, TX, Jim moved to Arizona in 1959 to become the Founding President of Guaranty Bank, predecessor of United Bank of Arizona. Jim served as Chairman and CEO of United Bank until 1988, then became Chairman and CEO of the Valley National Bank until his retirement in 1990. Jim served on numerous boards including ASU’s College of Business Dean's Council of 100. He also received many awards including University of Arizona Alumni Association Distinguished Citizen and Arizona Harvard Business School Leadership Award. Jim is survived by his wife, Patricia Eisele Simmons, eight children, 21 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. A private interment has been held and Jim's memorial service will be held Saturday, August 10, 2013, at 11 AM at Christ Church Anglican, 5811 N. 20th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85016. Donations in Jim's honor may be made to Barrow Womens' Board, 350 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013; Christ Church Anglican; and Hospice of the Valley , 1510 E. Flower, Phoenix, AZ 85014.