Kerry Simmons

In memory of Kerry Roland Simmons, 52 (June 23, 1957 - June 17, 2010), we celebrate his life. After a courageous fight to recover from cancer, Kerry lost his battle on June 17, 2010. His wonderful doctors - Dr. Joseph Piperato and Dr. Mike Cusnir -- took excellent care of him and guided us throughout Kerry's treatment. Kerry was treated with the utmost respect and dignity during his chemotherapy at Mount Sinai Medical Center at Aventura. From the receptionist, the lab and treatment nurses, to the housekeeping staff at Mount Sinai Medical Center, they truly love their work and are very compassionate, not only to the patients, but to the families. Kerry stayed at home until he was no longer able to fight, asked the Lord into his life to prepare him for his journey, and was transferred to Hospice by the Sea Care Center in Hollywood at Memorial Regional Hospital South. The thoughtful and loving nurses at Hospice by the Sea are very special people and should be recognized for the care they give our loved ones at a very difficult time. Kerry had a diverse professional career over his lifetime. He was an actor and starred in several plays and three motion pictures -- The Island, Nobody's Perfect and Dogs of War; a certified EMT and worked at Parkway Hospital; a waiter; was in management at the Fountainbleu Hilton and TGI Fridays for many years; went to FSU and received a BS degree; received an AA Degree in Medical Photography and worked with a midwife photographing seven home births; started a landscaping business; and was the Office Manager for Davis Sanitation for 15 years. Kerry was diagnosed HIV positive 29 years ago and with proper care and medication; he lived a very healthy life. As a result of his diagnosis, he started a support group for persons with HIV. Kerry is survived by his life partner of 30 years, Raymond (Sonny) Davis, Jr., brothers, Rob (Evelyn) and Tony, nieces, nephews, cousins and many close friends who he called family. In keeping with Kerry's wishes, there will not be a service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Kerry Simmons to the American Cancer Society , 8095 N.W. 12th Street, Suite 200, Doral, FL 33126, (800) 227-2345. Please provide the American Cancer Society with an address to send an acknowledgement to the family.