Owen R. Simmons

NEW BEDFORD - Owen Reid Simmons, one year old and would have been two years old on December 27th, passed away peacefully in his parents arms, Andrew R. and Heather M. (Burns) Simmons, on Saturday, November 14, 2009. He fought a brave and courageous battle against Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Owen faced every obstacle with grace and determination.

Owen smiled and laughed every single day of his life. He enjoyed his movies, long walks and singing and dancing with his family. We will always treasure our memories of his laughter, happiness and contagious smile. Owen's sparkling eyes and joyful spirit affected all who met him.

Owen's family would like to extend our deepest thanks to his nurses: Kris Mello, Kathylee Alves and Cindy Shea, for loving him and always keeping him smiling.

In addition to his parents, Owen is survived by his brother, Adyn Simmons; his maternal grandparents, Richard and Susan (Tremblay) Ponte of Dartmouth; his maternal great-grandfather, William Tremblay of Fairhaven; his paternal grandparents, Richard and Elizabeth (Conforti) Simmons of New Bedford; his aunt, Jessica Duclos and her husband, Michael of New Bedford; and his uncle, Adam Simmons of New Bedford.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Owen's memory to Southcoast Hospice, 200 Mill Road, Fairhaven, MA 02719.

Visitation will be Wednesday 4-8 PM at Rock Funeral Home. His Funeral Mass will be held at St. Julie Church, Dartmouth, on Thursday at 10 AM. Burial will be private for family only.