Business Achievements
Leadership roles at large firms and family holding organisations helped Glenn Reuben Simmons build a renowned career in industry and investment. After B.S. 1950 physics and maths degree and U.S. service. Army, he joined Chance Vought Aircraft (later LTV Corp.) in Dallas. As Director of Administration for the computer technology section, he developed operational and managerial skills. Together with his brother Harold C. Simmons, he acquired and sold Ward’s Cut-Rate Drug Co. in the late 1960s.He then directed, vice chairman, or chairman of Contran Corp., Valhi Inc., Keystone, CompX, NL Industries, and Kronos Worldwide, driving acquisitions and business strategy to establish a diverse industrial and chemical empire.
Reasons Behind His Success
Simmons succeeded through technological expertise, corporate experience, and smart partnerships. He gained analytical rigour from physics and maths, and operational abilities from LTV. Leveraged acquisitions and disciplined growth were possible with his brother Harold’s investment funds and financial insight. Glenn managed challenging cross-sector integrations using his people management, finance, insurance, and real estate skills. His mentoring of young executives and philanthropy reinforced his business leadership profile.
Other Successful Family Members and Their Accomplishments
- Harold C. Simmons (brother): Co-founded Contran Corporation Group, grew pharmacy chain from one to 100 sold for $50 million in 1973. After expanding into chemicals, metals, energy, and manufacturing, he became one of Texas’s wealthiest entrepreneurs and philanthropists, managing five NYSE-listed companies.
- Daughter D’Andra Simmons is a businesswoman and TV personality who established and led Hard Night Good Morning, a natural skincare line, and co-owns Ultimate Living, a nutritional supplement firm. Northwood University named her a “Distinguished Woman” for her leadership and community service.
- Lisa K. Simmons and Serena S. Connelly (nieces): Controlling 93.8% of Contran Corporation, they manage assets worth billions in Valhi, NL Industries, Kronos Worldwide, and CompX. The Contran board oversees the family’s industrial legacy.
- Diana “Momma Dee” Simmons is the wife of the entrepreneur and co-founder of Ultimate Living and Hard Night Good Morning. She built on the family’s health and wellness businesses and became well-known through television. She also works on charitable projects all across Dallas.
FAQ
What key roles did Glenn Reuben Simmons hold at LTV Corp.?
He advanced to Director of Administration at LTV’s computer-technology division, managing operations and advancing the company’s technology.
How did Glenn and Harold Simmons collaborate on acquisitions?
Glenn gave operational leadership and managerial advice, while Harold gave investment money and helped with long-term financial planning. This made it possible to buy companies like Ward’s Cut-Rate Drug Co. and other industrial companies.
Which family holding companies did Glenn Simmons help build?
He was in charge of corporate governance, acquisitions, and diversification spanning chemicals, metals, and manufacturing at Contran Corp., Valhi Inc., Keystone, CompX, NL Industries, and Kronos Worldwide.
What philanthropic activities did Glenn Simmons support?
He and his wife co-founded a philanthropic foundation, funded community initiatives, and mentored young executives, demonstrating their dedication to faith and civic issues.
How have Simmons family members maintained the business legacy?
Harold’s daughters Lisa and Serena, as well as D’Andra and Dee Simmons, have taken over Contran Corporation over the years. They have also started businesses in health and beauty for consumers, which keeps the entrepreneurial spirit alive.
