When Richard Simmons died unexpectedly on July 13, the day after his 76th birthday, the world lost a bright light. Richard devoted his life to helping others be healthy, active, and proud of their accomplishments. For more than 30 years, he was a fixture in the health and wellness community before retreating to a private life in February 2014.
Videos by InspireMore
In the months prior to his death, Richard remerged on social media, sharing his unique brand of upbeat and encouraging messages. After his death, his brother, Lenny Simmons, posted on Richard’s Facebook page asking that we not be sad about his brother’s death. Rather, “I want them to remember him for the genuine joy and love he brought to people’s lives. He truly cared about people. He called, wrote, and emailed thousands of people throughout his career to offer help. So don’t be sad. Celebrate his life!”
Richard’s Family Held A Celebratory Mass in His Honor
On October 5, Lenny delivered a beautiful eulogy for his brother during a memorial mass at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans. Lenny loved his brother deeply and said Richard’s faith led him to an incredible career.
“Richard Simmons finally knew what God wanted him to do. He wanted Richard to help people, motivate people, encourage people to get healthy and lose weight, get fit, and have fun doing it,” Lenny said.
His success wasn’t just measured in pounds lost, but in lives changed. Millions of people have sweat with Richard as he cheered them on in his signature exercise clothes. Lenny made sure to let us all know that Richard’s work didn’t end when he died.
“I want to let you all in on a little secret: Richard is wearing his tank top and shorts underneath his clothes just in case God’s final plan for him is to get all the angels and saints in Heaven into shape. Richard Simmons will forever be ‘Sweating with the Holies.'”
You can find the source of this story’s featured image here.
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.
