Known for his fiery personality and energetic moves, fitness instructor and television icon Richard Simmons is being remembered by family and friends alike. The fitness guru was celebrated in an emotional and touching service in New Orleans recently.
Just as Richard was known for his dance-inspired fitness regimen, he was also known for his quirky wardrobe and in particular, his trademark tank top and shorts. During the tribute, Lenny Simmons, Richard’s brother, disclosed an intimate secret about the star’s resting attire, that illustrated his eccentricity even in death.
Richard Simmons was buried in his distinctive fitness attire – a lustrous tank top and a pair of vibrant sweat shorts. Lenny explained the choice of attire signifying that they believe that Richard’s purpose continues even in his afterlife. Expecting that Richard will be helping the heavenly beings to stay fit and healthy, they wanted him to be in his element, doing what he loved to do – staying fit and making others adopt fitness as a fun process.
Richard Simmons journey came to an end of chapter one at the age of 76. He passed away on July 13, soon after enduring several severe falls and in the backdrop of an ongoing heart condition. Two days before his passing, Richard had fallen badly and was resting in bed the entire day. Despite experiencing pain in his leg post the accident, he decided not to visit the hospital. The next morning, he was found unresponsive by his long-time caretaker, Teresa Reveles. Richard’s death was announced as an accident by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office, with Arteriosclerotic cardiovascular being listed as a contributing factor towards his death.
In his life, Richard was a harbinger of happiness for many fitness enthusiasts. His discourses were full of charm, and his fitness sessions were attuned to lifting one’s spirits. His death has left a significant void in the fitness industry, many of his fans still find it hard to believe that Richard has moved onto a new journey.
Teresa, his caretaker, and his biggest confidante, in her testimony, said that she knew Richard had experienced a heart attack. She recalled how she found Richard’s hands balled into fists when she found him unresponsive. Richard passed away a day after his birthday, adding to the sadness of the somber event.
Richard’s death though unforeseen, was not shadowed by any foul play. He was buried quietly in a private ceremony five days after his passing with just his family and closest friends present. The end of Richard Simmons life marked the wrapping up of a vibrant journey of a man who made fitness fun and lives healthier.
While Richard’s earthly journey had ended, his loved ones including his brother Lenny, firmly believe that Richard is continuing his spiritual journey elsewhere. His flair for fitness and highly energetic self, would now make the heavenly beings stay fit and ecstatic, as affirmed by Lenny. Despite his absence, Richard’s legacy and his passion for health will continue to inspire many in their journey towards a fit and fulfilling life. His endearing personality and unmatched ingenuity made him more than just a fitness guru. As it seems, he will forever continue to be the pulse of the fitness industry, inspiring many in the days and years to come.
