Richard Lamar Simmons

JANUARY 29, 1952 – JULY 25, 2018

Richard Simmons was born to H. T. and Estelle Simmons on January 29, 1952, in Columbus, GA. He was a proud alum of Baker High School, where he was a state finalist in wrestling, and an all-state football player. After high school, Richard received a scholarship to play football for the University of South Carolina. In 1976 he joined the Columbus Fire Department, which he would serve for over thirty-one years, retiring as a Battalion Chief in 2007. On August 27, 1977 Richard married Jean Townsend, who remained his faithful partner in life for almost forty-one years. Together they had two children, Justin Lance born in 1983, and Jillian Alyse born in 1988. A faithful husband and father, Richard at times worked three jobs to ensure a comfortable life for his family and provide every opportunity for his children. As a committed Christian, Richard was a devoted member of the Edgewood Church of Christ for over forty years. As the spiritual leader of his family, he set an example of what it means to be dedicated to Christ and the church, while allowing his children to grow in their own walk with the Lord. Richard loved the beach…and the mountains…and birds…and the turning of the leaves in the fall. The hundreds of his “scenic shots” which endure in photo albums and computer files are a testament to his ability to appreciate the beauty of God’s creation. Richard was a hard worker, a perfectionist in all that he did. He was also a tenacious fighter, battling stage IV cancer for over five years. His legacy of love, faithfulness, and strength will endure in the lives of all those whom he touched, just as his spirit endures in the presence of his Heavenly Father. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shcolumbus.com for the Simmons family.

• FAMILY

• Jean Townsend Simmons, Wife
• Justin Simmons, Son
• Melissa Simmons, Daughter-in-law
• Kimberly Bradford, Granddaughter
• Kristen Snyder, Granddaughter
• Nathan Snyder, Grandson
• Jillian Ramsey, Daughter
• Matthew Ramsey, Son-in-law
• Baby Ramsey, Grandson to be born
• Tom Simmons, Brother
• H.T. Simmons, Father
• Estelle Simmons, Mother
• He also leaves other numerous friends and relatives to cherish his loving memory.

Prior to receiving his Obituary:

Just received a sad notice (7/26/2018) about Richard Simmons class of 1970 from his close friend Mike Freeman.  Richard attended the Lunch with Lions on a regular basis.  Richard also played the the South Carolina Gamecocks after graduation from Baker. I will post an obit when it is released.  -- Ish Nazario '61

Ish, just wanted to let you know that very unfortunately, Richard Simmons, Class of '70 passed away last night (7/25/2018) at Columbus Hospice after a very long, courageous 5 year battle with Cancer. -- Mike Freeman,Class of '70

07/27/2018
Richard's obit will be posted later today according to the funeral home.  Visitation at Striffler-Hamby funeral home on Macon Rd., Columbs, GA. will be today Friday from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.    Funeral on Saturday at 2pm at Edgewood Church of Christ followed by short graveside service. Thanks to Mike Freeman and Roy Cook for sharing this information.  I will post the obit when it is published later today. -- Ismael (Ish) Nazario '61