Richard Lee Simmons, Sr.

Richard Lee Simmons Sr., known to many as Pie or Rick, a devoted son, brother, and father, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida, at the age of 67.

Richard was born on December 16, 1957, in the Bronx, New York, to the late Janet Elaine Brown and Claude Simmons. He spent his early childhood in the Bronx attending primary school there and later continued his education at Roosevelt Junior and Senior High School in Roosevelt, Long Island. Richard cherished the time he spent with his Simmons family including his father, aunt, uncle, grandparents, and extended relatives in White Plains, New York, where he enjoyed many weekends, holidays, and family gatherings filled with laughter and love.

After graduating high school in the late 1970s, Richard proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he served honorably for four years in the Military Police. Following his military service, Richard pursued several of his interests including sports, music, and leadership. A lifelong sports enthusiast and a dedicated New York Giants fan, he had a deep love for basketball and football. He served as an assistant coach for Roosevelt Junior and Senior High School’s basketball team, where he enjoyed mentoring young athletes and supporting their growth.

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Richard also worked as assistant manager for the R&B music group Atlantic Starr, which was formed in White Plains, New York, in 1976. His love for music ran deep, and his connection to the group reflected his charismatic and creative spirit.

In the 1990s, Richard worked as a supervisor with Parsec Inc., a transportation logistics company in Jacksonville, Florida, where he demonstrated dedication and leadership. Beyond his professional work, Richard was an innovative entrepreneur who engaged in various business ventures throughout his life, including founding his own trucking company, MTN Transportation & Logistics, Inc., Jacksonville, Florida, a project that was especially meaningful to him.

Pie’s life was marked by his vibrant personality and generous heart. He was known for his charisma, charm, hearty laugh, and persuasive spirit. He had a natural gift for bringing people together through storytelling, humor, and his warm presence. When he entered a room, his stature and presence commanded attention, a reflection of the confidence and energy he carried throughout his life. One of his passions was driving and taking road trips. He also enjoyed music and social gatherings, and he took great joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially a good plate of fried chicken and the laughter of family and friends around him.

Above all, Richard’s greatest devotion was to his family. For over fifteen years, he selflessly cared for his mother, Janet, and his brother, Tyrone, dedicating his time and energy to their comfort and well-being. His deep compassion and unwavering love were a testament to his character and strength.

Richard was preceded in death by his mother, Janet Elaine Brown, his father, Claude Simmons, and his stepfather, Anthony Brown.

He is survived by his sons, Richard Lee Simmons Jr. of Puerto Rico and Richard Lee Simmons III of Jacksonville, Florida. He also leaves behind his brothers Kenneth Simmons, Anthony Brown, and Tyrone Brown; his sister Shirley Brown; his sister-in-law LaGeorgia Brown; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and extended family.

His dedication to service and helping his loved ones will forever be remembered, and he will be missed more than words can express.

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