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Richard Simmons Obituary

Richard Simmons, age 76, of Los Angeles, California passed away unexpectedly, on Saturday, July 13, 2024. Born Milton Teagle Simmons on July 12, 1948 in New Orleans, Richard "Dicky" is predeceased by his parents, Leonard Douglas Simmons and Shirley Satin Simmons. He is survived by his loving brother and sister-in-law, Lenny and Cathy Simmons of Harahan, Louisiana and the hundreds of thousands of adoring fans whose lives he touched for over fifty years. Richard attended St. Louis Cathedral Parochial Grammar School, then graduated from Cor Jesu (now known as Brother Martin) High School, in 1966. He attended University of Southwestern Louisiana (now known as University of Louisiana at Lafayette) and graduated from Florida State University in 1970 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Known for his vibrant spirit and enduring passion for fitness, Richard never considered himself a celebrity, but rather a motivator who honestly cared about the people he met during his lifetime. His encouragement, positive attitude and trademark tank top and striped shorts made people all over the world, smile and laugh. He encouraged people of all shapes and sizes to "Never give up" and "move those buns", because "You are worth it!" Please join us for a celebration of his incredible life on Saturday, October 5, 2024 with a Mass at St. Louis Cathedral for 11:00 am (doors open at 10:00 am). After Mass, there will be a brief workout tribute to "Sweating to the Oldies I" followed by a Second Line procession though his beloved French Quarter to Musicians' Legend Park.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Times-Picayune from Sep. 27 to Sep. 29, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Simmons

Not sure what to say?





CC

July 7, 2025

We all still miss you!

Lynne Cullen

July 6, 2025

In remembrance 1 year later. Thank you for all the motivation you gave to us all. Hope and pray his family is well.

Laura

July 6, 2025

Richard Simmons was such a great motivator. He enjoyed helping people. He is missed.

Nancy McCall

July 6, 2025

We miss you so much. My daughter and I at the taping of Toning to the Oldies... Happy Heavenly birthday, Richard

Bonnie

July 6, 2025

There will never be a man like Richard Simmons again. A pure heart of gold. Totally devoted to his quest for all to be healthy. He is missed by many.

Kimberly Cotter

July 6, 2025

I will never forget meeting Richard! It was at Bally's in Las Vegas at the elevator and I was star struck! He was so kind and insisted I get on the elevator with him but I couldn't. Full of energy and goodwill, I will never forget him.

Dorothy

July 6, 2025

Thank you Richard for all the positive smiles & support throughout my life. You will always be remembered. Happy heavenly birthday! Sending love

Dorothy Gleason

July 6, 2025

My daughter lives in West Virginia and I live in Virginia and via zoom we used to work out together with Richard´s Ab Formula. Thank you Richard for inspiring me to exercise. Your tapes make exercising fun. Happy Heavenly Birthday.

Carolyn McEwen

July 6, 2025

Happy heavenly birthday you are so missed by everyone

Chicki Rigazio

July 6, 2025

Happy Heavenly Birthday Richard

ellen

July 6, 2025

can't believe it has been a year... still think of you often and how much you
had an impact on me!!! working for the Anatomy Asylums were some of my happiest memories and after I had my first baby when I saw you at an event you reached down and kissed her head in the sling she was in made me so happy!!! you still motivate me to work out every day at I turned 70 this year xo

Liz

July 6, 2025

Can't believe it's been one year since His passing. I met him once in 1990. At a Mall in Massachusetts. Got to sweat with him.And Talk with him for a minute. He was a wonderful person.

Linwood "Nat" Watson

July 6, 2025

My Prayers still go out to his family, Kathy, Lenny and all of his friends.

Linwood "Nat" Watson

Deborah Bell

July 6, 2025

Sending loving memories of Richard. He was an earth Angel

Debbie Schirmer

February 15, 2025

I loved watching Richard when he was on General Hospital. Plus I saw him when he showed up at our local mall. He was so sweet and caring, doesn't get any better than that. I miss reading his posts but very glad that his family is sharing his thoughts and songs with us again

Single Memorial Tree

Vesuvi Timeaux

Planted Trees

Janet BeCraft

November 20, 2024

My late grandmother introduce my mom and I to his first "Sweatin To The Oldies" and we had fun doing his exercises and my mom and I will miss Richard very much.
It felt like we were there doing his exercise live.
We also loved his commercials, we also enjoyed watching Richard on talk shows and games shows including Pictionary, Win Lose And Draw, Body Language and Figure It Out: Wildstyle
My mom and loved his singing voice and if we had a favorite song by Richard, It would have to be "You Can Do It (If You Try)"
Rest in peace Richard

Sharon Texeira

October 30, 2024

From the first moment I saw you I know I wanted to know you and I did. I made it to LA to be on your show even thou I was not picked to cook with you, a miracle happened towards the end I was picked my dream came true. Then I auditioned to be a OA Weight instructor, I got hired. From then on when you came to the Bay Area I was always the first in line and when I came to LA you always had my granddaughter with me and you would tell us to come to the house . You made quite an impression on my boys and family. I will for always be grateful for your generosity, kindness, and love that you gave so freely. You are for ever in my heart you are not forgotten . Never Give Up Sharon

Ralph

October 19, 2024

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Loree ONeill

October 7, 2024

I had met Richard when he came to our town In Manchester NH, I was studied exercise science at that time and had been Dancing to the oldies a lot. Our professor gave us an assignment to find and invite Richard to speak at our Graduation! Well I was the one who found him down by the river running up and down the stairs he was warming up for his class at the Mall and getting ready for an interview with the local TV station. I walk right up to him and introduced myself and told him what my goals were in life, and he greeted me with a big smile and was very happy to meet me, and said so "How are you gonna do this" I told him about returning to college and that I was studying exercise science. He was very pleased. We didn´t have a lot of time to talk cause he was getting ready to do the Interview, I was able to ask him if he could speak at our Graduation, he was disappointed at the date and had previous engagement, but was honored that our college wanted him to speak. He then asked me if I was going to the mall for his class and I said yes, I will be the one in the front row!! ( I got there early of course! ) I was chosen to dance on stage with him and others of course! It was an amazing day! From that day on I went to the mall for all his classes! This is only one memory, I have many more that I will hold close to my heart! To Lenny and Cathy my condolences for the loss of your brother, my heart and prayers are with you and the family. Thank you for sharing his celebration of life service it meant so much to me to say goodbye until we meet again! Lenny, you remind me of him so much! The song he sang was a perfect fit, I loved hearing his voice again he will be missed and is forever in my heart& My prayers
Loree ONeill

Susanna P

October 7, 2024

I have loved Richard since I was a little girl in the 80's. My late Momma and I have always adored his zest for life, and his passion to help others have a healthier, and happier life. He really was an angelic loving soul. I will always cherish the e-mail he sent back to me only 2 weeks before he left this earth for his home in heaven. I pray his family, and closest friends, all all who are missing Richard are comforted. I will always have love in my heart for Richard. He sure is missed.

Linda Johnson

October 7, 2024

With a full heart I extend my condolences on the passing of dear Richard to Lenny and Cathy as well as to Richard´s friends, and to his adoring fans.
Richard and I became friends as teenagers when we were members of a theatre group called the Newman Players, later renamed the Orleans Summer Theatre (OST). I have such happy memories of performing in plays with Richard. Even more, the OST was a group of teens that became close friends who enjoyed each other´s company even when we weren´t working on a play. Parents of group members often had us over to socialize with each other. Of course, Richard was the life of every party. Even then he had the same exuberance and sense of humor that you see in him in his Sweatin´ to the Oldies. I am smiling so big just reminiscing.
Richard, I thought of saying rest in peace, but that´s not you. In fact, I bet you have all the angels and saints in heaven lined up Sweatin´ to the Oldies too! Love you, dear Friend. You are sorely missed.

Rosie Todd

October 7, 2024

Thank-you Lord, for sending Richard into my life. He helped my faith grow while my body shrank. Rest in peace my friend. I will remember you always.

Jamie Langtom

October 6, 2024

Rest in peace Richard. You truly changed my life and countless others for the better with your positive attitude. Your giving spirit will live on and continue to be an inspiration in this world that you have left changed for the better.

Debbie Gregory

October 6, 2024

Lisa Kowal

October 6, 2024

Richard always made me smile and was so inspiring. I don't think there's is a kinder, more giving person on the world than him. He gave far more than he received. I will miss him.

Karen Eadie

October 6, 2024

Will always love you Richard Simmons...

Deborah Bell

October 5, 2024

Thank you Richard, you were a gift to humanity and I loved you. Rest with God

Madeline Dillard Devereux

October 5, 2024

Heaven has gained an angel. Will miss you. Thank you for making fitness fun. God bless you. Love you always

Cindy Stafford

October 5, 2024

Richard gave me courage and motivated me to Dance with the oldies. I loved Richard. Praying for comfort to his brother and sister in law. Rest in peace!

Janet Wells

October 5, 2024

Richard brought love and joy and fun! He will be remembered.

International Kathy

October 5, 2024

Thank you Richard, for all the unconditional love you have to all of us. You are forever loved.

Lynn Brann

October 5, 2024

Richard was such a bright light! I use to do his workouts when I was younger. He loved people and it showed! I´m praying for his brother and sister in law. His smile will always be what I see when I think of him

Brother Conrad Richardson, fbp

October 5, 2024

Requiescat in pace, dear Richard. May the Angels lead you into Paradise. (Cruise to Loose `99)

Debbie Spruell

October 5, 2024

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Cheryl Christensen

October 4, 2024

How does one say thank you for all the inspiration and hope you've given me and so many others over the years? I never got to have the opportunity to meet you, but I feel as if we were friends and I miss you! So, thank you for being you - an angel on Earth and now in Heaven. I will always love you and I hope you know just how much you are loved!

Angie W

October 4, 2024

Thank you, Richard for all the I aspiration, motivation, and words of encouragement you've shared over the years. Your enthusiasm for life was contagious. God bless you. Keep 'Sweating to the Oldies'.
YOU ROCK, RICHARD!

Deborah Bell

October 4, 2024

Thank you Richard for all you did for all of us. You were an Angel on Earth and I loved you.

Annabelle

October 4, 2024

You will always be in my heart.

Doreen Sullivan

October 4, 2024

Many hearts were broken when you left because of the kindness you shared. God must have needed another Angel.
We will miss you Richard. Love Always, Doreen Sullivan

Anthony

October 4, 2024

No words. I just love him so much!

Linda mendenhall

October 4, 2024

Richard was a great person I remember the year he came to Indiana he was such a inspiration to me

Melinda Cangas

October 3, 2024

Richard was a wonderful person who taught the world to dance again! His videos and kind words helped me immensely though hard times. He led by example. I´m so glad I got to tell him how much I appreciate him.

Anthony O´Connor

October 3, 2024

I am deeply saddened to hear of Richard Simmons´ passing. His energy, kindness, and dedication to helping others live healthier, happier lives touched countless people. Richard was not only a health guru but a beacon of positivity and inspiration. His legacy will continue to motivate us all to live with more compassion, joy, and self-care. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and all those who loved him during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Richard-you will be greatly missed.

April Flower Clifford

October 3, 2024

My prayers n condolences He was alway my inspiration n love his positive vibes n sure gona miss him
Always n forever a fan

Bev Perkins

October 3, 2024

I pray you are Dancing with the Angels . Your life mattered !!

Carmen Stallworth-Clark

October 3, 2024

Rest in peace Mr. Richard. Your kindness and thoughtfulness will never be forgotten.

Carolyn McEwen

October 3, 2024

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always....Richard you have your wings now

Kathi DeRosier-Hertz

October 3, 2024

I loved working with the anantomy asylums and going to Richards for a cookie contest as a judge and taking his classes in BH'S and modeling his workout wear, auditioning for videos...great memories that make me smile. Condolences to the family. Watch over the world Richard while you're dancing in the stars with your mom

Deborah Bowers-Nelms

October 2, 2024

I use to drive to Slimmons every Saturday . He enter acted with me on such a sweet level, bantering. He touch me heart in many ways. So sorry for everyone's loss. Richard was a great human.

Genevieve Peterson

October 2, 2024

Such a beautiful tribute to an amazing person. He will be missed! I started doing his workouts in the 90s when I was in my twenties. He has helped me stay fit for decades. He helped me lose the baby weight after each of six pregnancies! And I continue to Sweat to the Oldies even now at age 50. I know he´s still proud of me and I love his smiling face up on my tv. Blessings to your family.

Single Memorial Tree

Sheila Marie Strobel

Planted Trees

Bonnie

October 2, 2024

You were a kind and gentle man, an animal lover, a great writer and storyteller. The world is a little less without you in it. I hope you have all the angels Sweatin´ to the Oldies.

Susan D. Pennsylvania

October 2, 2024

Richard, we had just talked three days before and I will always cherish the last email that you sent to me. I wish we could have had that lunch we talked about, but god had other plans. I hope you rest in eternal peace. You have finally made it all the way home and now can hug your mom again. I love you my friend and will never ever forget you.

Denise Briggs

October 2, 2024

I have been watching Richard since I was in 8th grade on General hospital then the Richard Simmons show after GH. I exercised to Sweating to the oldest for years. Then Richard started posting pictures of himself in vintage clothing. He look so happy & he was beautiful. He has been such an inspiration and has motivated me so much. I truly miss him!

Suzanne Pani

October 1, 2024

I'll miss you forever..but we will meet again someday

Suzanne Pani

October 1, 2024

Kathy Dotson

October 1, 2024

You were an inspiration to the masses and adored my many. Rest easy Richard

Sue Elliott

October 1, 2024

I am so sorry that so many others will never know how kind and loving you were to all of us who had our lives transfixed by you. I will always remember the last 4 cruises and how much we benefitted from them. Rest In Peace Richard!

Robin Magargle

October 1, 2024

I'm so sry for your loss. He was my mom's favorite person to watch. I grew up watching his videos. He surely will be missed. Maybe my mom can finally meet him in heaven

kim Nelson Wallace

October 1, 2024

So many wonderful memories of joyful times together as we all celebrate a life well lived. He impacted my life. I will miss him dearly.

Maureen Zucconi

October 1, 2024

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Sandy

October 1, 2024

I´m so grateful I got to meet you and get a hug years ago. You will always be in my heart.

Kathy

September 30, 2024

I love you, Richard Simmons wherever you are. Perhaps in Lou of flowers, we can all donate to one of Richard´s favorite charities. He´d probably prefer that I would think.

Lyn P

September 30, 2024

He always made people smile. He came out to Sydney for the opening of the entertainment centre. He was fantastic He had people on their feet exercising. Such a wonderful memory. I know he is up above smiling and watching us all. Lyn P. from Australia

Annette Chioma

September 30, 2024

We all loved you dearly, Richard, as you loved us.
My sincerest condolences to all family and friends.
His was a life well lived.
Rest in Peace

Kenny Spellman

September 30, 2024

On behalf of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart Alumni Association and Brother Martin High School, I offer our prayers and condolences. We will say a Mass in his memory.

Kenny Spellman ´84
Brother Martin High School

Nicole

September 30, 2024

Our friendship endured a lot, but I hope you now know just how much I always loved you. You´ll be in my heart forever.

Nicole

Single Memorial Tree

Susan J Cwik

Planted Trees

Shirley McKemie

September 30, 2024

Richard, you even helped me through times that had nothing to do with weight loss. I wrote to you once at a low point in my life and you took the time to email me and you encouraged me and lifted me up. I also went on your Cruise To Lose to Mexico years ago and oh my goodness, the fun we had!! I´m sure there is a special place in heaven for you, Richard. You are missed.
Shirley

Anna C

September 30, 2024

Thank you for everything, Richard. We love you and will remember you always.

Elizabeth

September 30, 2024

You were always concerned you weren´t doing enough or you "missed" that one person. Rest easy, your work and life left an amazing legacy of love and compassion. You accomplished what was important to you. Now, go and be with Shirley, Mary G, and your girls (puppers). They´ve been waiting Love ya always.

Cindy

September 30, 2024

I'll never forget the time I ran into Richard at a fitness event in Tampa in the 80s. He was his usual bubbly self! An amazing man with a heart of gold! May you rest in heaven's eternal peace.

Stacey

September 30, 2024

To Richard's family on earth and in heaven - thank you for sharing Richard with us. There will never be anyone like him, not ever again. How we loved his quirky eccentricies and the overwhelming, selfless love he poured out to a community who has felt ashamed and undeserving our whole lives. I hear songs on the radio and start dancing the steps from the Sweatin' to the Oldies! I think it's amazing that you're including some Sweatin' after the funeral!

Richard - oh, how we miss and love you! I worried for you the years that you were so absent, and it was thrilling when you came back, even for that short time. Rest well in your mother's arms, dear one. You have earned your place among the angels.

Loretta

September 30, 2024

You gave me my life back. Rest is well-deserved peace.

Barbara Flanagan Rainaud RN BS MPA/H MLIS LNHA

September 30, 2024

Will always love you Richard nursebarbara

Sheila

September 30, 2024

Thank you sweet man for the laughter and music! You touched the lives of millions and gave so many hope. Your spirit will live on in so many ways, but especially in those whose progeny are here because you took the time to let their loved one know that someone cared. You helped many back from the abyss. Truly, you have been missed for decades in the public eye...... now you can truly rest easy in peace. Again, thank you for the memories..... Love you much

Corinna Gray

September 29, 2024

You taught me more about healthy weight loss than anyone. Your Reach album gave me my life back. Thank you so much . Know that you were truly loved and respected.

Alycia N

September 29, 2024

My first memory of Richard was when I saw his exercise show on TV, aged 5. I immediately saw his kindness & empathy & adored him ever since. He was an Earth angel & a change maker. I hope his spirit & inspiration lives on. My condolences for everyone who feels his loss deeply.

Dorothy

September 29, 2024

Thank you for the love, memories, laughter & light that you brought to us. I will always be your fan.

Sharon

September 29, 2024

I met him over twenty years ago. Such a sweet man. He gave his heart to the world.

Christina

September 29, 2024

Richard was one of my favorite people. He always made me smile, even now as I still work out to his videos. I just recently sent him and email before he passed and he sent a sweet note back to me that I`ll cherish forever and use as inspiration to help me lose the weight I need to lose.

Shannon

September 29, 2024

He was an inspiration to so many who needed his loving style of encouragement. He will be deeply missed always.

GiGi

September 29, 2024

What wonderful memories I have of meeting Richard on one of his cruises, he was as delightful and kind as a person could be. I will miss you dear Richard.

Ellie

September 29, 2024

You always made me feel worthy! Thank you for the love you gave and encouragement to those of us who struggle with their weight and confidence. You will be missed.

Maureen Shea

September 29, 2024

Mr. Simmons's outlook on life has helped so many people... including me.. When I was trying to join the U.S. Air Force, I really needed to get into physical shape. I followed his plan to the letter:.. Years later when I found his website, I thanked him... in return, he thanked me for my military service. I still have that printed email. ... Mr. Simmons, you have helped so many people on life paths... Thank you so very much for bringing joy to others. May you have Peace, Happiness , and Love in Heaven, Peace to your family and friends. Thank you Sir... Respectfully, TSgt Maureen Shea (Ret. U.S.A F.)

Anna Marie Nolan

September 29, 2024

Richard was a beautiful person who truly cared for others. He helped many during his lifetime. He will be missed! rest in Peace, Richard!!!

Carolyn Connolly

September 29, 2024

Richard has been a part of my exercise routine for over 25 years!! Love his routines. Love his encouragement and genuine care. I feel he is right there with me! My sympathies to his close friends and family. And to all of us who have had our lives touched for the better by Richard´s love. God bless.

Sandra

September 29, 2024

I watched Richard when he had his exercise TV program. He was a great motivator. He was always so positive. You couldn´t help but love him.

Kimberly

September 29, 2024

I met Richard unexpectedly in Las Vegas of all places, on an elevator. Well almost, I couldn't get on with him as I was too shy. He was so full of life and joy. A major loss to the world, Heaven gained so much.

Sheila M. Strobel

September 29, 2024

Dearest Richard,

Though we never met, I have always hoped that you knew how much I cared for and loved you. I was really beginning to emotionally connect with you in your recently renewed live Monday evening chats. I'll treasure them always. You touched me deeply, sweetheart.

I'm very aware that the many people you've encountered over the past 5 decades have greater memories of meeting and knowing you but, I didn't have to view you face to face to know that you were a very special individual that had an innate ability to touch people on a very personal level and was created into a human angel from God's hands.

It is my prayers to our Lord through Jesus Christ that one day in the new world I'll finally see you and love you in the Godly way I wanted to in this one. Until then, God's got you in His memory. Rest peacefully, Richard.

Angela Corathers

September 29, 2024

Some people come to this earth to teach us about our own hearts. He was a walking testimony of loving others, and bringing out the very best in people. He humbled us through his humor and he was real with us sharing his heart. Few people make it to such high regards universally. Richard broke the mold. He was in my opinion a bit of all the greats. A bit of Bob Ross, a gentle soul that accepted everyone and brought out people´s creativity. A bit of Mr Rogers bc he was so wise and always teaching kindness. He made you feel special through a radio or TV. And funny like Robin Williams (RIP), he was just as quick witted, high energy, and very inhabited giving his humor an edge or a twist. My favorite mornings were when he was a guest on a radio station. I was so excited to have found his FB page and enjoying his writings about his life. Add he was an amazing author. Richard, I hope you knew what an impact you left behind. You will always be loved. Praying for your loved ones. Grateful for the life of Richard Simmons. So much more than an entertainer. You made your way into our hearts. A 54yr old Ga woman. Fan

Ann Wiggin Nealy

September 29, 2024

I met Richard years ago On The Angela Show. My sisters worked for Angela. Years later I met Lenny & Cathy at our Catholic church on Loyola Drive in Kenner, La. Im so sorry for your loss, Keeping yall in my prayers!

Cynde Villegas

September 29, 2024

Rest in paradise king Richard Simmons! Your joy was infectious, thank you for sharing yourself with the world

Evin

September 29, 2024

Thanks for everything that you did for us Richard. We love you and we miss you. May you be energizing the heavens

Edra

September 29, 2024

I always appreciated Richard's vibrant energy and compassion for everyone. I owned all of the 'Sweatin' VHS tapes at one time .

Diann B

September 29, 2024

God bless you Richard. Meeting you made such a difference in my life. You took me under your wing and made me feel so special. I miss you but know you earned your angel wings, rest in peace.

Deborah

September 29, 2024

I miss you Richard. I will always remember you well. Thank you for being wonderful!

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