Richard Wells Simonds

Richard Wells Simonds, lovingly known as “Sima”, a brother, uncle and loyal friend passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025 at the age of 79.

Born in Bayshore, New York on April 3, 1946, Richard lived a quiet life. Richard was a United States Army veteran and was drafted in 1967. He was first sent to Fort Polk, Louisiana, for training and was then assigned to the 1st ID Big Red One. En route to Vietnam, the USS Pueblo was captured by North Korea and he was diverted to 7th ID in North Korea. He was stationed there for 14 months as the admin Sergeant, and got to see a Bob Hope USO Show. He finalized his time in the US Army shortly after returning from deployment.

Following his time in the military, Richard attended Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania from 1964 through 1968, graduating with a degree in metallurgical engineering. He was very proud of the time he spent there playing football, the trumpet and studying. After graduating, Richard then dedicated his life to his work as an engineer at Grumman, where he contributed his talents to innovative aerospace projects with characteristic precision and pride. One notable project included his participation in the build of the Apollo Lunar Module for the space mission.

Though he never married, Richard built a meaningful life surrounded by close friends who became more like family. He was a quiet man who found comfort in solitude but held deep affection for those closest to him. While he didn’t have children of his own, he valued his role as a surrogate uncle with quiet devotion. Though he lived a simple life and never asked for much, he made sure to take care of those he loved in the ways that he felt mattered most.

When Richard was not traveling for work he could be found with a fishing rod in hand, casting lines into local waters or enjoying Zorns ribs watching Sunday football with his friend, John. He had a keen ear for great music—from jazz to soul R&B —and a palate for rich and delicious food, always eager to share his latest culinary discovery or favorite eatery.

Richard’s legacy is one of quiet strength and an appreciation for life’s simple but profound pleasures. He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A private memorial will be held by close friends and family. In honor of Richard, take a moment to enjoy a favorite song, a perfectly cooked meal, or a quiet day by the water—just as he would have.