Ronald A. Simmons

Ronald A. Simmons, a cherished family man, dedicated public servant, and friend to many, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 73. Born on September 12, 1951, Ronald's life was one marked by service, love, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of his community.

Ron graduated from Leominster High School in 1970, a place where he formed many lifelong friendships. Soon after, Ronald answered his nation's call by joining the United States Marine Corps, serving honorably from January 27, 1970, to January 26, 1972. His time in the service instilled in him a sense of discipline and duty that would define his career and personal life.

After his military service, Ronald returned to Leominster, where he became a respected police officer. Known as “Ronnie Blue Light Simmons,” he served the community with integrity, earning the respect and admiration of both colleagues and the citizens he protected.

Ron was a man of many interests. He had a green thumb, finding solace and joy in gardening. He had his own competition with himself on how green his grass could look compared to others on his street. He was well known for being a jack of all trades, from building homes, fixing things, running local campaigns and much more. He was a sports fanatic, always cheering on the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots, and sporting their gear even when they were on losing streaks. Later on in life, Ron became a traveler, with St. Pete's Beach in Florida and York Beach, Maine being favorite getaways of his and Jane's.

Family was the foundation of Ronald's life. He is survived by his partner, Jane Tibbetts. He was a devoted father to his daughters, Mary Kate Nunez and Jessica Gonzalez, and a caring father-in-law to their husbands, Hugo and Denzel. The girls will miss his humor, his love and his close knit bonds he had with their children. Ronald's son, Brandon Simmons, will remember his father as a guiding light and role model. His brother, Jim Simmons and his wife Claudette, will miss the bond they shared and the memories they created together. He leaves behind 5 grandchildren, Xavien (12), Caspian (7), Jayden (5), Nahla (5) and Alara (10 months) who he is known to as Papa. They will miss the infamous Papa pool parties, where they spent hours on end in the pool playing together and splashing around. He leaves behind his two step daughters Judy Richard of Leominster and Lisa Tibbetts of Leominster. He leaves behind his niece Kimberly (Baker) Gibbs who will always cherish the joy he brought to her heart by being the kindest and most supportive Uncle . Ronald was predeceased by his wife, Mary Jane Simmons, who was his rock and the love of his life.

Ronald's legacy is one of love, service, and commitment. He touched the lives of many and left an indelible mark on his community. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him, but the memory of his warm smile, his unwavering courage, and his generous spirit will live on.

Ronald's life will be commemorated in a private ceremony, per his wishes. His family kindly asks that those who knew him take a moment to honor his memory in their own way, perhaps by tending to their gardens, enjoying the beauty of a beach sunset, or contributing positively to their communities, as Ron so often did.

There will also be a celebration of life at Monoosnock Country Club in Leominster on Saturday, May 3rd from 3 to 6 PM. All who knew and loved him are welcome to come and celebrate his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in Ron’s name to the Leominster Veterans Center at 100 West Street Leominster, MA 01453 or the Lewy Body Dementia Association, Inc. at 912 Killian Hill Road S.W., Lilburn, GA 30047 or online at https://www.lbda.org/donate/

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