Ricky Russ Simmons

Courtesy photo

+ Enlarge

Ricky Russ Simmons

April 9, 1980 ~ February 20, 2022

Ricky Russ Simmons, 41, of Riverton, passed away February 22, 2022, in the arms of his mom, Tina Simmons. She guided him to be the first in the family to give Jesus a hug.

Ricky, son of Rick and Tina Simmons, attended and proudly graduated from St. Francis Xavier School, Judge Memorial Catholic High School and the University of Utah. He enjoyed his career as a higher education administrator at Western Governor’s University.

Ricky was a gentle giant who had a way of making those around him feel they were the most important thing to him. Family was everything to Ricky. Hands down, he and his dad Rick Simmons were the best of friends. Ricky was a self-proclaimed mama’s boy. He and his mom shared their wide-ranging love of music and had the same sense of humor. Growing up, his sister Lacey was his other half. They shared many funny inside jokes, gestures and made countless treasured memories together. Ricky grew up on the lap of “Uncle Russy” in his wheelchair. “Uncle” was Ricky’s favorite role. He adored his nephews Peyton and Oliver. They were his world.

Ricky is survived by parents Rick and Tina Simmons; sister Lacey Delmas (Loran); nephews Peyton and Oliver; grandma Jolene Simmons; godfather Joe Pacheco; madrina Mary Johnson. He also leaves behind many aunts and uncles: Curt Simmons (Wendy); Cathy Cenci (Kurtis); Brad Simmons (Angel); Mark Pacheco (Barbara); Lisa Miller; John Pacheco (Lynette); cousins: Camrann, Sam, Miles, Collin, Marshall, Taryn, Bryce, Taylor, Kylee, Toni, Kevin, Andrew, Jona, Johnny and Brandon. We want to acknowledge his BFF Jason Atkin and his many friends, especially the men and women in “Ricky’s Dawg Pound.”

Preceded in death by his special uncle, Russell Simmons; cousin Britt Nielsen; grandpa Allen Simmons; grandpa Celestino Pacheco; grandma Grommy Ann LeMasters; aunt Bonnie Pacheco; uncle Laurence Pacheco (Roger).

A celebration of Ricky’s life was held February 26, 2022 at Juan Diego Catholic High School. There will be a Catholic graveside service at a later date.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations can be made to the college funds for Peyton and Oliver, or to the memorial fund being established to help kids of working-class parents (a cause close to his heart). You can donate through long-term friend Farrola via Venmo: @Farrah801. Peace and love to all.