Robert H. Simmons of Saugus, formerly of Stoneham, passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side on Monday, January 12, 2026. He was 83 years of age. Born on Sunday, October 11, 1942, in Wilmington, Delaware, Robert was the loving son of the late Homer Clay Simmons and Marguerite (Hurlock) Simmons. Robert was a warm, kind, loyal, gentle and devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend who will be truly missed. Robert was the beloved husband of Beatrice (Connors) Simmons.
He was the devoted father of Brenda Hill and her husband Thomas, Pamela DeMichaelis and her husband Kevin and Alison Brangiforte and her husband Joseph. The cherished grandfather of Jason, Kevin, Ryan, Calan, Avary and Aidan. Robert was the dear brother of the late Peggy Ann McAllister and her late husband Maurice. He was also lovingly survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who adored him.
Robert graduated from UMASS Amherst in 1964 and continued his education by receiving a Master’s Degree in Education from Salam State College. He dedicated 35 years to the Lynnfield School System from 1970 to his retirement in 2005. He served as a sixth-grade teacher, math and science coordinator, and acting principal at Summer St and Huckleberry Hill Schools.
A passionate educator, he was deeply committed to inspiring curiosity and excellence in science, while also cherishing his beloved family. Throughout his career, he brought forward innovative programs and initiatives that left a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike. He also initiated the Title 1 Program and worked with students in the Star Lab. He will forever be remembered in the Lynnfield School Systems.
His most memorable and enjoyable moments were spent with his wife, three daughters, and grandchildren. He especially loved sailing the waters of Granger Pond in the summer and riding snowmobile trails in the winter in Denmark Maine. Robert and his wife were responsible for tracking the loon count on Granger Pond, which promoted safety and protection for wildlife. Along with his wife, Robert was an active member with deep involvement at St John’s Episcopal Church in Saugus.
His love for family was his greatest devotion. He firmly believed that family was everything and he found joy in life's simple pleasures. Robert had a remarkable ability to see beauty in all things. A lifelong teacher both inside and outside of the classroom, Robert cherished every opportunity to teach, especially teaching life lessons to his grandchildren. His kindness, patience and humble ways will always live within us.
Family and friends are cordially invited to gather and share memories with Robert's Family on Tuesday, January 20th, 2026 from 4-7pm in the Barile Family Funeral Home, 482 Main Street (RT 28) STONEHAM. Parking attendants and elevator are available.
A Funeral Mass Celebrating Robert's Eternal Life will be held on Wednesday, January 21st, 2026 at 11am in Saint John's Episcopal Church, 8 Prospect Street, Saugus. Interment Forest Hill Cemetery, Lynnfield.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Robert's memory to support Maine Audubon's loon protection work at http://maineaudubon.org/support/give/
For more information, www.facebook.com/BarileFamilyFuneralHome
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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