John V. Simkins succumbed to lung cancer on February 7, 2011 while he was resting comfortably at home.

John had been with the United Communities Volunteer Fire Department since July 2008 and with his skills as a mechanic, provided maintenance support to the fire equipment along with efforts to assist with our building and grounds projects. John would visit the fire station daily and worked to assist our younger members as they worked to develop their fire service skills.

In the past he served with several volunteer fire departments in Prince Georges County including the Bowie Volunteer Fire Department, Company 19, the West Lanham Hills Volunteer Fire Department, Company 28 and 48, and the Silver Hill Volunteer Fire Department, Company 29.