Lenny Simmons disclosed that they buried Richard Simmons, an iconic figure in fitness and television, in his famed workout attire. Furthermore, this personal touch highlighted a heartfelt tribute during his celebration of life in New Orleans, Fox News reported.
Simmons, who had celebrated his birthday just one day prior, died unexpectedly at home from complications related to a recent fall and heart disease.
Subsequently, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office later ruled his death an accident, attributing it to blunt traumatic injuries with arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease as a contributing factor.
On July 13, 2024, Teresa Reveles, Richard Simmons' longtime caretaker, found him unresponsive. Upon entering the room, she discovered him on the floor of his bedroom, appearing serene yet lifeless, leading her to believe he had suffered a heart attack.
Even though he had fallen on July 11, Simmons chose not to seek immediate medical attention, hoping to avoid hospital visits on his birthday. "No, Teresa, not on my birthday. Why don't we wait, and we do it in the morning?" he had told her. Unfortunately, by morning, it was too late.
The medical examination conducted on July 14 clarified the unfortunate sequence leading to Simmons' sudden death. Subsequently, on August 22, they certified the cause of death, revealing it as accidental, which intensified the shock and sorrow among his fans and family.
During the traditional autopsy process, they revealed the presence of arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, which worsened the impact of the blunt traumatic injuries he sustained from his fall. Ultimately, these findings put to rest any speculations about the fitness mogul's sudden demise.
In a ceremony as unique as the man himself, they laid Richard Simmons to rest wearing his signature tank top and shorts. The outfit honored his energetic vitality and his life's work of promoting health and wellness.
Lenny Simmons, during a memorial service in New Orleans, shared the touching detail of his brother’s burial attire, likening it to a superhero's costume. "Just like Clark Kent underneath his beautiful things that he was wearing, his clothing, [Richard] is wearing a tank top and shorts," Lenny said in a video tribute.
He further explained the spiritual sentiment behind their choice. "Because we think that God has another plan for him, and we want to make sure that he was going to be in his normal costume that we all know and love to help the saints and the angels get into shape," Lenny added.
Amidst vibrant anecdotes and emotional memories shared by loved ones and admirers, Richard's brother expressed a poignant thought: "So I'm here to say to you that even though he's not here and I know he's in spirit here tonight, Richard Simmons will forever be sweating with the Holies."
The ceremony in New Orleans not only celebrated life but also reflected the vibrancy and passion Richard Simmons brought into the lives of many. The intimate gathering affirmed his lasting legacy in the fitness world and beyond.
Richard Simmons’ influence transcended television and workout videos. His enthusiastic approach to health and exercise motivated thousands to embrace a more active lifestyle, marking him as a pioneering figure in the wellness industry.
As tributes pour in, Richard Simmons' ethos of fun, fitness, and flamboyance endures. Lenny's revelation about Richard's final "costume" energized fans and followers, ensuring his spirited legacy continues to inspire even in remembrance.
In honor of Simmons, family, friends, and followers celebrate the remarkable journey of a man who danced his way into the hearts of millions, leaving an indelible mark on the fitness world and popular culture.
His unique philosophy towards fitness and life remains impactful, urging everyone to find joy in movement and life. Richard Simmons' final message seems to echo: keep dancing, keep moving, and most importantly, keep sweating with joy.
