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John Walter Simons, Jr.

September 13, 1940 - February 27, 2026

visitation

Visitation
Sunset View Mortuary
Wednesday 3/11, 9:00 am - 10:00 am

service

Service
Sunset View Mortuary
Wednesday 3/11, 10:00 am

cemetery

Cemetery
Sunset View Cemetery Association
101 Colusa Ave.
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 525-5111 |
Wednesday 3/11, 12:00 pm

reception

Reception
Sunset View Mortuary
Wednesday 3/11, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

John W. Simons, Jr., 85, passed away at home in Richmond, CA, on 02/27/2026, surrounded by his devoted family.

​John was born on September 13, 1940, in Brooklyn, New York. He attended Boys High School and Virginia State College, and he served with pride in the U.S. National Guard. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Simons, Sr. and Lucy Williams, and his brother, Philip Davis.

​Dedicated to his family and community for his entire life, John made a pivotal change at age 44. After working as an Allstate Insurance Agent in Colonie, New York, he chose to steer his career toward a new and more fulfilling path. He graduated from Hudson Valley Community College with a degree in Respiratory Therapy, which led him to relocate his family to California in 1988 to work in Seton Medical Center’s sub-acute unit in Daly City.

​After retiring in 2005, John moved to Reno, Nevada. He volunteered at St. Mary’s Medical Center, supported law enforcement for over a decade with the Reno Police Department’s SAVE program, and helped at the University Family Church food ministry in Sparks.

​At home, John was the heart of his family, especially during shared meals. He actively participated in multiple bowling leagues, held the position of Sergeant at Arms for the Sunset Match Club in Sparks, collected Mickey Mouse memorabilia, and regularly visited Disneyland.

​John is survived by his wife, Theresa; his children, Chad Howard-Simons (wife Neiasha; sons Chad Jr., Cameren, Caleb, and Chase), Egein Howard (husband Matt; daughter Emily), John Simons III (wife Dana; daughter Ella), Jowal Simons; and Jeremy Howard (daughter Samantha, sons Jeremy Jr., and Javier); his sister-in-law, Mary Lefebvre; his brother-in-law, Charles Collins (wife Kate); several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews; and his loyal fur-baby, Duddie the Cat.

Recently, John made the decision to embrace his faith and accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. This choice provided him with significant comfort and tranquility in the final weeks of his life.

John may be gone, but his steady support, kindness, wisdom, and sense of humor continue to influence us. The way we treat others with compassion keeps his legacy alive, inspiring and guiding us into the future.

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Visitation
Sunset View Mortuary
Wednesday 3/11, 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Service
Sunset View Mortuary
Wednesday 3/11, 10:00 am
Cemetery
Sunset View Cemetery Association
101 Colusa Ave.
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 525-5111 | Map
Wednesday 3/11, 12:00 pm
Reception
Sunset View Mortuary
Wednesday 3/11, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

John W. Simons, Jr., 85, passed away at home in Richmond, CA, on 02/27/2026, surrounded by his devoted family. ​John was born on September 13, 1940, in Brooklyn, New York. He attended Boys High School and Virginia State College, and he served with pride in the U.S. National Guard. He was preceded in death byContinue Reading

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Tree 9 trees were planted in memory of John Simons, Jr.
Anonymous left a message on March 5, 2026:
Condolences to the Simons family! John was kind and compassionate! It was an honor to have worked with him at Seton.
Mary, Charlie and Kate left a message on March 5, 2026:
We love you all so much. Sorry we could make it out.
Theresa Simons left a message on March 10, 2026:
A Final Goodbye As I prepare to say my final earthly goodbyes to my beloved husband of over four decades, my heart is broken. I am experiencing a crippling sense of loss, but at the same time, I am overwhelmed by the blessings we shared throughout our life together. The strength of our connection and the treasured moments we shared are imprinted on my heart. No matter what challenges arose, John stood by my side, and together we overcame every obstacle. I'll always be grateful to John for supporting me during a difficult time in my life. John was an exceptional person admired for his integrity, strength, and strong principles. He left a positive impression on everyone he met. Although John grew up in the Christian Church, it was only recently that he decided to accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He strongly believed that every individual is granted free will, which can sometimes result in errors and misunderstandings. Forgiveness was especially important to John. This value is echoed in Matthew 6:14: “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you; but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Like many marriages, ours experienced moments of misunderstanding. Knowing John as well as I do, I'm certain he has forgiven me for my mistakes—except for that one night when I hid the TV remote. I am truly blessed to have had such a wonderful man by my side for all these years. He was a remarkable loving father to the children and worshiped his grandchildren. John loved his fur-baby Duddie. Although my heart is crippled now, I know that we will be together again. I miss you and love you and will always be your girl. Theresa
Jowal, Dora and Rhyan Simons left a message on March 9, 2026:
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss... Our thoughts are with you and the family during this difficult time.
Designer's Choice Bouquet was purchased for the family of John Simons, Jr. by Jowal, Dora and Rhyan Simons. Send Flowers
A tree was also planted in memory of John Simons, Jr.
John, Dana, and Ella Simons left a message on March 8, 2026:
Dearest Dad and Pop-Pop, You will remain forever in our thoughts and in our hearts. With fond memories and everlasting love,
Lavender Reflections Spray was purchased for the family of John Simons, Jr. by John, Dana, and Ella Simons. Send Flowers
A tree was also planted in memory of John Simons, Jr.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Jimmy Lewis left a message on March 7, 2026:
Teresa and family, May the God of love and hope bless an d sustain you, during your time of need🙏🏾❤️
Michael Van Degna left a message on March 6, 2026:
Well my brother has passed. Tearfully I remember all the times we spent together. Both of us expressing joy of our lives. So I will be planting a strong Oak tree in my rather large yard in an area that I can see every day and feel joy that he is near me and my family.✝️
Mike Rohr left a message on March 5, 2026:
So sorry for your loss.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of John Simons, Jr. . Plant a Tree
Brett Porter left a message on March 5, 2026:
With deepest condolences from all of us at Burke County DSS Adult Services. We are all thinking of you and yours during this difficult time.
Anonymous left a message on March 4, 2026:
From all of us at the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District with our deepest sympathy and condolences.
White Designer's Choice was purchased for the family of John Simons, Jr. by Anonymous. Send Flowers
Sunset View Mortuary left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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