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George Simmons Obituary
82 Entries
Hugh Redman
September 11, 2023
11 Sep 2023: For the families of Diane and George-- I had the privilege of serving as your military escort during the October 2001 and September 2002 memorial services at the Pentagon. I always remember the closeness of your families and your generosity in inviting me and my wife to the wonderful wedding at the Bear Mountain Lodge! I still have the button you gave me with George and Diane's picture on it and always will. I never got to meet Diane and George but consider myself extremely lucky to have met so many of their wonderful family members. God Bless you all! Hugh Redman
John J Slattery
September 11, 2020
I worked with George at Xerox and specifically the 60 Broad Street, New York branch office. At that time, George was our marketing manager with responsibility for the largest single market for Xerox products in the world. He was extremely effective at his job and respected by both clients and fellow employees. Integrity and loyalty were the underpinning of his approach to doing business and over the years he trained many of our sales leaders.
He was a good friend and I miss him.
John J Slattery
Andrew DeVita
September 10, 2020
19 years have passed but your spirits still live in our hearts. Love to the family!
Brian Guerriere
September 11, 2019
Always thinking of you on 9/11
How you can show support
Roy Beskin
February 20, 2017
George was my boss when I was a Sales Trainer for Xerox at Leesburg. George was tough on the instructors; he pushed you to do your very best, to strive for excellence. As great coaches often do, he could get more out of you than you thought you have to give. He was special.
Randy Atherton
September 16, 2016
I worked with George at the Xerox Leesburg Training facility in 1984-85. He was a fantastic colleague and friend. Unfortunately, I was not aware he and his wife Diane were on flight 77 until September of 2016. His life was an inspiration...
Michele Smith
September 13, 2016
I am a member of Ohio Patriot Bikers. We ride to remember and honor our fallen. This year I rode for you and in your name. Rest in peace
Jill Kaufman
September 11, 2016
It's been 15 years now, but it still seems like September 11th was yesterday. I worked for George at the Xerox Training Center for years and still miss him. He was the best boss I ever had. He was very positive and would even check on employees who were sick. He and his wife liked to travel to Hawaii and were on their way there that day. They used to bring me back something special after each trip when I worked for him. I stil wear the gold leaf they got me each September 11th. Rest in peace George and Diane.
Life is Good!!!!
September 11, 2013
We will never ever forget. The years will pass, life will change but our love and fond memories will continue to grow in our hearts and minds. George and Diane were so special, and as the years pass it becomes more and more apparent. We will continue to cherish our family and friends and love life every day in your honor.
Andy, Colleen, Nick, Tommy and Kristen
Andy DeVita
September 11, 2012
Remembering our dear friends, Diane and George on this day. Forever in our hearts. My kids loved to call you nana Dianna and papa George!-- Still have the fondest memories of your kindness and smiles.
Freddy Helm
December 25, 2011
Hey George, miss you playing Santa on Christmas
Tricia Ficarella
December 23, 2011
What great memories we have of Santa Brunch weekend with George & Diane. Lots of laughs, food, family & friends. Miss you.
Andy and Colleen DeVita
December 21, 2011
Merry Christmas to all. Remembering Santa George and the merry good times!
Tricia Ficarella
September 12, 2011
Forever in our hearts. Love & miss you.
Tricia & Andy
Freddy Helm
September 11, 2011
George miss you and Diane today and everyday 10 years have gone by so fast I can only imagine all the good times we could have had and the good times we did have together thanks.
Always in our hearts.We will NEVER FORGET you.
Andy DeVita
September 7, 2011
10 years have passed and the wonderful spirit of our dear friends, George and Diane, live in our hearts....forever. We wil never forget.
Deanna Whoriskey
June 19, 2011
Dad,
Missing you today and always!
Happy Father's Day in heaven!
Love you!!
Andy DeVita
May 2, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with George, Diane and their family always. God bless the USA today and everyday!
Freddy Helm
September 11, 2009
George we miss you and Diane today and everyday. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you and the great times we had on the holidays,Santa brunch on Christmas at your house and going to Rehobeth Beach on Easter and when you took Billy,Joe and me tubing on the Patomic we had so much fun. And thanks again for helping take care of Dad.
I can't belive 8 years have gone by I will never forget you guys.
Thanks for being a GREAT Brother-in-law.
Andy Ficarella
September 10, 2009
George and Diane,you had the ability to always make everyone you came in contact with to feel comfortable.You always opened your home to family and friends. Trish and I are forever grateful to the both of you for the love and guidance you gave us over the years. You had unconditional love for all. We miss you dearly and try to continue your legacy by opening our hearts and home to family and friends, here in Delaware. Our journey here started with an invitation by you for Easter in 1992. We are eternally grateful for all you have taught us, and for guiding us even today.
Peggy Childers
September 8, 2009
To the family of George Simmons:
George gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. My deepest sympathy to you. We must never forget!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
September 7, 2009
We are doing a school project on 9/11. I am very sorry for the loss and can tell what wonderful and loving people george simmons and his wife diane were.
Doug Abraham
July 16, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Deanna Whoriskey (Simmons)
September 20, 2008
Dad & Diane,
It's been 7 years and we miss you more and more every day. I miss both of you and treasured our time we spent in England together for my birthday celebration, drinking martinis and then going on the merry go round.
Wish you were here to meet our son, he inherited your smile. Thanks for all of the wonderful memories. We miss you both and love you and always live by the motto "Life is Good"!
The Blue Bird visited again!!!
Tricia Ficarella
September 11, 2008
WE ALL MISS YOU..JOE ESPECIALLY MISSES YOUR SPORTS DISCUSSIONS.
LOVE, TRICIA, ANDY & JOE
Tricia Ficarella
April 20, 2008
Thanks for inviting us to "the beach" all those years. Andy & I just had a house built in Lewes, Delaware the town next to Rehoboth. We'll be retiring there next year. Wish you and Diane were here to enjoy this time with us. Love & miss you. Love Tricia
Marcie Reinertson
October 13, 2007
Ken and I were in Napa Valley Ca on 9-11-2007. We found a wonderful restaruant we knew George and Diane would love. We had a champagne toast to honor their memory and thank them for all the wonderful things they'd done.
Rich Kimble
September 13, 2007
I met George at the Xerox Training Center in Leesburg, as a Training Administrator. He was one of the good guys, and told me that the company did not know what to do with me! I left Xerox in 1994. I will not forget George!
Sharon
September 12, 2007
In memory..
Rick Willimott
September 11, 2007
George was my Manager while working for Xerox as a Consultant in the XBS group. I will never forget the many words of wisdom given to me by George and his positive attitude in all situations! Many of us at the Training Center called him "Papa George" as he often provided us feedback for growth and was always there for us. George was a dad away from home to me while I was staying at hotels in the area until I headed back home...
I had the pleasure of socializing outside of work with George and his wife Diane on a few occasions. I learned of their outstanding value system and love for each other!
I miss you both and will always remember the positive impact you made in my life...
Melinda Schnur
September 10, 2007
I still carry the traditions that you and Diane taught us with me throughout life. As I bring a son into this world, I will honor your memory by teaching him the power of generosity, kindness and love that you shared with me. Thank you for being my rock.
P Tabbernor
July 19, 2007
In memory....
kristine
June 9, 2007
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Tricia Ficarella
April 2, 2007
Thanks for sharing Rehoboth Beach with us what a special place it has become. We're headed there again this year...although it's not the same without you and Diane.
We can still picture the two of you walking down the boardwalk headed towards Thrachers.
Miss you,
Tricia
My father and George
Melinda Reinertson-Schnur
January 17, 2007
George:
You taught me to make one hell of a martini. I toast you often.
Marcie Reinertson
January 14, 2007
I'm sitting here with a smile on my face and tears in my eyes looking at a great picture of George and my husband Ken. Oh, that was a happy day.
You and Diane maybe gone from this earth but you're still in our hearts.
We were so honored to know you.
I wear your memory band with pride knowing we knew you and how special the pair of your were!
Freddy Helm
December 25, 2006
Dear George, 5 Christmas's gone by and you guys are missed just as much as you were on Christmas 2001.
You would be really proud of the adult Secret Santa dinner and the Santa Brunch for the kids that you and Diane started with our family and how much it has grown, thanks.
And THANKS for bringing our family closer for the Christmas and Easter holidays and everyday also thanks again for helping Diane take care of our father.
George I miss you and Diane and think about you guys everyday.
Love Freddy
Sharon
September 14, 2006
George, I can not help but smile at your picture, You look as if your personailty stands out. you will never be forgotten. we know you are in God's hands now, rest in peace and have some fun!
George and Diane
September 14, 2006
Tricia Ficarella
September 12, 2006
When people ask about George I tell them how especially caring he was and always full of life. He enjoyed the company of family & friends, great conversation and delicious food. He took the time out to make sure he called my son Joe every week just to talk about school, sports, etc... those conversations always went on for over an hour.
George taught us about the importance of family and we are keeping his traditions alive.
WE MISS YOU GEORGE.
Gary Gullickson
September 12, 2006
WOW - 5 years have passed. Like so many of George's friends I knew him at XDU as a co-worker. He was an outstanding trainer, a golfer partner and always a professional. I miss his smiley face memos.
Irene Byrne
September 11, 2006
Dear George,
You and Diane are truly missed and we think of how you welcomed Jen and I when we moved here from Florida. "Purple Passion" is marrying this Saturday and your presence will truly be missed. Love and prayers. Irene
Chris Simmons
September 10, 2006
Five years have gone by and so many things have changed. I miss speaking to you and the great conversations we had. I miss going to Daytona with you. I know you would be proud of the man I have become and what I am doing now.
We’ll meet again
Love, Chris Simmons
Stacy & Rob Russo
September 8, 2006
Rob and I miss the two of you very much. Great memories of Diane and George remain in our hearts as Sept 11 approaches once again. You will always be in our heart and we love you very much
Tricia Ficarella
February 12, 2006
I can't believe it's been 4 1/2 yrs. since we last saw George & Diane. Miss the Sunday phone calls most of all. When the phone rings on Sunday mornings I still think it's George & Diane calling just to check in.
Linda Carman
September 11, 2005
I just found this site and felt I have to pay tribute to a friend to whom I have always admired. I worked at Xerox with George for 9 years. He was not only a co-worker but a friend and an inspiration to me in both my personal and professional life. I was heartbroken when I learned that he was among those on the Flight that horrible day.
George - you will NEVER be forgotten. As you said to me so many times GOD BLESS YOU
Linda Carman
July 16, 2005
We think of George everyday but especially today on his bithday. We miss George's smile, his undivided attention, his willingness to always be available to listen to what's going on in our lives and of course his advice. No matter what he was doing he was never to busy for his family. We are thankful for all the wonderful memories of George.
George will always have a very special place in our hearts.
Tricia, Andy & Joe
August 22, 2004
To: Diane and George
On your 21st Wedding Anniversary
The Meaning
To love is to share life together
to build special plans just for two
To work side by side
and then smile with pride
As one by one, dreams all come true.
To love is to help and encourage
with smiles and sincere words of praise
To take time to share
to listen and care
In tender, affectionate ways.
To love is to have someone special
one who you can always depend
To be there through the years
sharing laughter and tears
As a partner, a lover, a friend.
To love is to make special memories
of moments you love to recall
Of all the good things
that sharing life brings
Love is the greatest of all.
I've learned the full meaning
of sharing and caring
and having my dreams all come true;
I've learned the full meaning
of being in love
by being and loving with you.
When I read this poem I thought of both of you. Your love for each other and your commitment to each other as couple, truly brings to meaning find your soul mate. We should all be so lucky to find our soul mates.
July 16, 2004
HAPPY BIRTHDAY GEORGE!
Love You
Miss you so very much!
Joe Valentine
March 19, 2004
I met George at Xerox, sometime in the 60's He was a sales rep for the CFP 24IV, I was a service technician. Twenty years later, we met again when we both worked in Leesburg. He was, in my estimation, an honest and sincere man, not afraid to speak the truth
THOMAS SIMMONS
December 2, 2003
WHEN I WAS A KID, MY FATHER WOULD TAKE MY 2 BROTHERS AND I TOO LOWER MANHATTEN.. TOO SEE THE TALLEST BUILDINGS AT THE TIME BEING BUILDED...MY ONLY OFFICE JOB I EVER HAD WAS AT THE WORLD TRADE CENTER... THEN WHEN I MOVED OUT OF NYC, I TOOK CARE OF MY GRANDPARENTS UNTIL THEY PASSED, THATS WHEN I BECAME A TRUCK DRIVER, 1986.. MY BROTHERS LIVE IN NYC, AND ONE IN BEDFORD, PA/.. 10 MILES FROM #93 CRASH SITE..THE ONE IN NYC, WORKED AT THE TOWERS, UNTIL HE GOT A JOB WITH A HOSPITAL...BUT WE ALL HAD FRIENDS THERE THAT DAY.....AND I AM THE ONE WHO DELIVERED THE FIRST LOAD OF OFFICE FURNITURE TOO THE PENTAGON THE SUNDAY AFTER....THAT WAS THE BEGINNING OF THE END, OF MY DRIVING DAYS...I TOOK A JOB, WHERE I AM HELPING PEOPLE, NO MATTER HOW LITTLE IT IS.. I`M HELPING OUT IN SOME WAY...YOU WERE MARRIED ON MY FRIENDS B-DAY, NOW I`LL NEVER FORGET THE SPECIAL PEOPLE IN ONES LIFE....
Jennie Huvendick-Robinson
September 11, 2003
George was one of the finest most positve people that I have ever met. He always had a smile on his face and a great story to tell. I was fortunate to have worked with him at the xerox training center in Leesburg, and also to play quite a few rounds of golf with him. I think of him often and miss his smile.
August 22, 2003
TO: George & Diane
Happy 20th Wedding Anniversary
July 16, 2003
HAPPY BIRTHDAY GEORGE!!
We are all missing you so very much, especially today. Our thoughts are with you always.
Love, Tricia, Andy, Stacy, Joe & Rob
Robin DeSonia
June 27, 2003
Not a day goes by that I don't think about Diane and George. A picture on a button hangs in my car so I can see their smiling faces every time I am driving. They watch over me as they did for so many people. I miss them. I can still hear George say "outstanding." How lucky I am to have known Diane and George Simmons.
John Perez
January 23, 2003
I had the HONOR of meeting Mr. Simmons at the Xerox Traning center VA. in 1986. Didnt find out he was a victim of these terrible acts until Jan, 23 2003... George,left a long lasting impression on my life and until this day I can hear George saying, OUTSTANDING thank you for asking, How are you?
Thank you and god bless George.
JP
Karen Slattery
November 20, 2002
It has been over a year now since we lost you and not a day goes by that something doesn't remind me of you. You have given me so much - you are missed.
Karen
Cary Knight
September 13, 2002
God Bless George and Diane and their family and friends. My prayers are with you all.
Kathleen Whelen
September 11, 2002
I worked for George Simmons at Xerox in New York. He was the manager of the Geographic Team - a kind of wild and woolly combination of new sales representatives and tough accounts. George was the consummate professional - demanding, but fair - and the classiest dresser! He set a great example for the team. He could handle the most difficult customers without losing his calm demeanor. I remember how proud I was to receive a good review from him.
Laura Costello
September 10, 2002
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you and your family!
Stephen King
September 10, 2002
I knew George and Diane through my wife Suzanne...they were all Xerox.
I think about George while driving his former 300ZX and remember how much he loved and cared for that car. I think about the times Diane stayed with Suzanne during her chemotherapy treatments. I think about George and Diane being there with us in the good times, and the bad times, too. I never thought it would all end this way. None of us did.
Sallie Simmons
September 8, 2002
George, As a brother-in-law you were the best. Jeff and I miss you so much. I miss our conversations together. You always made me feel so much better. Your lending ear and advise kept me on the positive track. You never missed a birthday, calling me and singing your special birthday song to me over the phone. Just so you know, in answer to your question you asked when you called me the day before we lost you, Mom took the change very well and misses you tremendously. We all do. Your always smiling face, your positive thoughts, your loving ways,your strength, we will cherish forever and miss greatly. Your brother misses the thoughts of things you and he planned together for the future but as also stays positive and strong as you would also do, no matter what. WE LOVE YOU and will always remember: LIFE IS GOOD!!
Kelly Hart
September 7, 2002
George, Thank you for making Diane laugh and smile every single day.
Melinda Reinertson
September 6, 2002
Diane and George
When I think of you
I think of sharing and giving
I think of selflessness
I think of growth and healing
I think of family and the strong bonds you created and fostered
I’m thankful to have known you, it was more than a privilege it was an honor which was bestowed upon me
When I think of you I think of peace, serenity
I think of happiness
I think of achieving my goals, following my dreams
When I think of you I think of fellowship
I think of sharing, forgiving
I think of safety, security
When I think of you, I think of love so unique, special and strong it’s like no other could give
When I think you, these are the things I will remember.
Michael DiMaio
August 20, 2002
I've known George through Xerox for close to 20 years. He always seemed to have a pleasant outlook on life and a positive comment for the day. In fact whenever you asked him how he was, his immediate response was always "Outstanding".
To his family, I offer this. I also was saddened to hear of this tragedy, but I believe I have found two new stars in the evening sky always shining down on us with a smile.
Tricia Ficarella
June 20, 2002
I will always respect George and the way he cared for my son Joe. Joe and George had a very special relationship. George would go out of his way to spend time with Joe. They would sit for hours playing cards, they especially liked playing poker. They would bet on whoever loses has to make breakfast for the winner. Well Joe served George Captain Crunch (George's favorite cereal) on many a morning.We miss George and his way of making us feel special.
Tricia, Andy, Stacy and Joe
Kathy Swaringen
May 28, 2002
today, May 28, 2002, 1 mile was walked to honor the life of George and all the family, friends, and loved ones he left behind. May you find some comfort in knowing that you do not grieve alone.
George, may you and your wife rest in peace. Although gone, you will never be forgotten.
April 29, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL MAN..GEORGE SIMMONS AND MAY HIS SOUL AND THE SOUL OF HIS WIFE REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..AMEN
Tom Soha
April 19, 2002
I had the honor of working for George for almost two years. I have never known a finer man. George was my manager, my mentor, my golf partner, a martini drinking companion, but mostly my friend. He and Diane were like second parents to me. They will be missed but never forgotten.
Angie Campbell
April 18, 2002
God Bless you and the loved ones that you left behind. Rest in peace.
Lewis Cowan
April 17, 2002
I worked for Xerox Corp. from 1977-1980 in the NY Financial District office. After completing basic sales training I was assigned to a geographic sales team and George was our manager. Did he ever work us hard. Whatever we did as a team and as individuals...he always expected more. You know what...he usually got it. To say that George was an integral part of what was to become a successful business career is an understatement. With George we worked hard, we played hard, and we learned what it means to put forward a 110% team effort. I will always be grateful and forever sorry that I didn't have the opportunity to tell Geore this in person.
Trischa Washburn
April 10, 2002
How I met George is my fiance', he is one of George's nephew's. I only knew him for 3 years and only saw him on occasions and he still had a impact on my life. Unfortunately I only met Diane once but she seemed just as happy w/ life as he was. They will both be missed tremendously. Lots of love, hugs, and prayers for everyone that was affected on 9-11. :)
DEBBIE HADEN
April 3, 2002
MY NAME IS DEBBIE HADEN AND I AM FROM VICKSBURG, MS. I HAVE THE MERCY BAND FOR GEORGE SIMMONS AND FROM WHAT I HAVE READ HERE, I AM VERY PROUD TO BE WEARING IT. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND HAVE BEEN SINCE "911" EVEN THOUGH I DID NOT KNOW ANY OF THE PEOPLE THAT LOST THEIR LIVES THAT DAY. IT WAS A TRAGEDY FOR EVERONE IN THE UNITED STATES AND WE MUST ALL STAND TOGETHER AND STRONG FOR OUR FUTURE. MAY GOD BLESS GEORGE AND DIANE'S FAMILY EVERY DAY.
Marcie Reinertson
March 11, 2002
I will always remember George smiling and saying LIFE is GOOD!
Dave Moe
March 11, 2002
I had the pleasure to work with George at the Xerox Center in Leesburg. He easily shared a sincere, engaging smile that affected everyone around him. We golfed many times in the Xerox League & I always looked forward to those outings. His courtesies and sense of fairness were part of his golf game and part of his work character. Having moved from Virgina a number of years ago, I did not know George and his wife were part of the tragedy until January. May his family and friends know that George's influence and kindness will always be fondly remembered.
Teresa Jahn
January 12, 2002
We are very sorry for your deep loss of George. May his life and love live on in all who love him. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Debbie Terwilliger
January 2, 2002
George was a wonderful man. We worked together at Xerox. When my young son died suddenly in June, 2001, I heard from George almost immediately even though we hadn't spoken since his retirement. I will always remember George fondly, the man with a constant smile on his face. My heart goes out to his family.
donna
October 6, 2001
Our hearts are broke George and Diane's family and friends. My brother Andrew and sister in law Colleen were very close friends of George and Diane. They had a wonderful friendship and will miss them tremendously as will my nephews and niece who loved them dearly.
BARBARA BOLIN
October 1, 2001
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU ALL.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
GEORGE MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
Jeanne Brooks
September 18, 2001
I'm a Xerox employee who remembers George from Leesburg. All of our prayers are with the family.
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