Fitness Icon Dies at 76 Due to Heart Disease and Complications from Recent Falls
Richard Simmons, the beloved fitness guru known for his flamboyant personality and high-energy workouts, passed away on July 13, just one day after his 76th birthday. His death was attributed to complications from recent falls and heart disease, as confirmed by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. Simmons, whose real name was Milton Simmons, collapsed on the evening of July 11 and was found unresponsive two days later in his Los Angeles home.
Buried in His Signature Workout Outfit
During a heartfelt celebration of life ceremony held at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans on October 5, Simmons’ brother, Lenny Simmons, shared a touching and whimsical tribute. Beneath his formal burial clothes, Richard was dressed in his iconic workout attire: a tank top and shorts. Lenny revealed that this decision was made to honor Richard’s legacy of promoting fitness and joy throughout his career.
“Just like Clark Kent, underneath his beautiful clothes, Richard is wearing a tank top and shorts,” Lenny shared with the gathered crowd. He explained the family’s reasoning, saying, “We think that God has another plan for him. We want to make sure he’s in his normal costume that we all know and love so he can help the saints and angels get into shape.”
“Sweating with the Holies”
Lenny’s words were filled with both emotion and humor as he went on to describe how his brother’s presence continues in spirit. “Richard will forever be sweating with the Holies,” Lenny said. The reference to Richard’s famous workout series, “Sweatin’ to the Oldies,” resonated deeply with fans, a nod to how the fitness icon’s infectious energy touched countless lives.
Cause of Death and Legacy
Richard Simmons was a household name, captivating millions with his unique approach to fitness. His colorful outfits, motivational tapes, and fitness classes made him a beloved figure in American pop culture. Despite retreating from public life in recent years, his impact remained strong. His cause of death was later confirmed as heart disease, exacerbated by “sequelae of blunt traumatic injuries” from his recent falls.
His brother, Lenny, urged fans not to be saddened by Richard’s passing but to remember the joy and care he spread throughout his life. “Celebrate his life,” Lenny said in a statement. “He truly cared about people.”
Final Words and Reflections
In what would become his last interview, just two days before his death, Simmons read a passage from his autobiographical Broadway show to a reporter. Reflecting on the themes of loss and grief, he poignantly shared, “It’s so hard to say goodbye. When it’s time for us to go, beautiful angels will greet us with a smile and a hello.”