O. Richard Simmons, 91, passed away on August 3, 2026.

Richard was born on May 28, 1935, in Franklin, West Virginia, to Oscar and Orpha Simmons. He was the youngest of seven children. After graduating from the eighth grade, Richard went to work to help support himself until he was old enough to enlist in the United States Air Force. He proudly served his country, and the skills and discipline he gained during his military service shaped the rest of his life. Following his honorable discharge, Richard returned home and eventually lived in several places across the country, including California, Annapolis, Maryland, and Phoenix, Arizona, before making the Kansas City area his permanent home.

A talented engineer with an incredible work ethic, Richard dedicated more than 65 years to keeping bakery equipment and facilities running. He worked for Wonder Bread, Hostess, Safeway, before retiring from his final position at Research Medical Center. If something needed to be fixed, Richard could repair it. If he didn't have the right tool for the job, he simply built one himself. His ingenuity, determination, and ability to solve almost any problem were admired by everyone who knew him.

Richard found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved mowing the lawn,  building and repairing things. He had an impressive collection of coins and hats. Family and friends often saved interesting coins to share with him, knowing how much he enjoyed adding to his collection. He rarely missed his favorite television shows, including The Price Is Right, Wheel of Fortune, and Family Feud as well as the classic westerns. One of the highlights of each week was gathering with his close group of friends for breakfast at the Corner Cafe in Liberty.

Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan; his sons, Alan, Bobby, and Donny; his parents and all six of his siblings.

He is lovingly remembered by his children, Sherry, Jeffery, Stephanie, Julia, and Daryl; his grandchildren, Brian, Tyler, Shea, Madison, Samantha, Felicia, Robert, Melissa, Mia, Daniel, Jimmy, April, and Michelle; his great-grandchildren, Mason, Penelope, Cayden, Ainsley, Kennedy, Roman, Scarlett, Maddox, Kristen, Lauren, Brody, Vanessa, Aubrey, Savannah, Alani, and Nyia; two great-great-grandchildren; as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

A Celebration of Richard's Life will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026, at Terrace Park Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 3:00 p.m. Burial will immediately follow the service. The funeral ceremony will be live streamed and recorded at the following link > https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=68ace658-bb96-46af-8c2e-13c508f78e1a