On the eve of his sudden demise, fitness icon Richard Simmons expressed heartfelt gratitude for life.
The beloved health advocate passed away just hours after his 76th birthday from natural causes, Page Six reported.
Simmons died at his residence on Saturday, the day he marked another year of life. The immediate cause of death appeared to be natural, with no foul play suspected. Discovered unresponsive by his housekeeper, paramedics declared Simmons deceased upon their arrival.
In his last known interview, released just a day before, Simmons communicated a poignant sentiment of thankfulness. "I feel good! I am grateful that I'm here and alive for another day," he said, reflecting on his intentions to continue helping others on his special day.
His birthday plans were simple yet meaningful. Known for his generosity, Simmons intended to dedicate his birthday to charity and personal reflection. "I'll spend my birthday doing what I do every day, which is to help people," Simmons had planned, along with enjoying his favorite treat - a single Pepperidge Farm Milano cookie.
Simmons' long battle with health concerns was public knowledge, highlighted by hospitalizations in 2016 for dehydration and severe indigestion in 2017. Despite these challenges, Simmons maintained a hopeful and active stance, celebrating everyday moments.
After retiring from the public spotlight in 2014, Simmons lived a relatively quiet life. He taught his last workout class at his Slimmons studio in February 2014, which he closed two years later. His retreat from public-facing roles didn't end his influence, as he continued to engage with his followers through social media.
On the morning of his death, Simmons shared an upbeat post on social media platform X. "Hello gorgeous! Please don't rain on my parade," he wrote, attached to a lively photograph. The post reflected his usual vivaciousness that characterized his public persona.
Despite his infrequent public appearances in recent years, Simmons had not lost his connection with his audience. He thanked his fans for their overwhelming birthday wishes the day before his death.
"Thank you…I never got so many messages about my birthday in my life! I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday," he responded graciously.
Richard Simmons rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s as a vibrant and enthusiastic fitness instructor. His energetic approach to health and fitness revolutionized personal wellness and made exercise accessible and enjoyable for a broad audience.
Simmons' legacy includes his aerobic classes and his unwavering commitment to making everyone feel capable of achieving their health goals.
Earlier this year, Simmons had revealed his battle with skin cancer, successfully having a tumor removed that had formed under his right eye. Although such news worried his fans, Simmons used it as another opportunity to encourage others to embrace life fully.
Simmons' unabashed earnestness and desire to help others made him a beloved figure in a world often cynical about celebrities. "Sorry many of you have gotten upset about my message today. Even the press has gotten in touch with me. I am not dying. It was a message about how we should embrace every day. Sorry for this confusion," he once clarified.
Reflecting on his life and contributions, it's evident that Richard Simmons was not just a fitness guru but also a beacon of positive energy and persistent goodwill. His approach to fitness and his philosophy towards life inspired countless individuals to care more deeply for their well-being and that of others around them.
Richard Simmons' departure marks the end of an era but also celebrates a life vibrantly lived and devoted to the well-being of others. His final days were marked by the same positivity and concern for humanity that defined his career.
In conclusion, Richard Simmons' life exemplified passionate advocacy for health, relentless support for others, and an enduring joyous spirit. His untimely death leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire those who seek to make a positive impact on their health and the lives of others.
