David Earl Simmons

Born on February 16, 1952, in Harlem, New York. David was the beloved son of the late Oliver and Louise (Booth) Simmons. He was the youngest of his siblings; the late Trina Thompson and Lois Simmons. After high school, David attended and graduated from Long Island Island University, where he earned his degree in Radiologic Technology. After graduation, he began at the VA hospital, where he met his (ex)-wife Carol Simmons. After leaving the VA, he was employed by, and retired from Elmhurst Hospital in Queens, New York, where he worked in the Nuclear Medicine Department. He settled with his family in Queens Village, New York, where they lived for 21 years.

His roots in New York shaped his lifelong love for the city, its culture, and especially its sports teams. A true diehard New York Knicks fan, David’s enthusiasm for the game began in childhood on the streets and gymnasiums of New York, where he won many championships throughout his youth.

David found joy in the simple pleasures in life; family, friends, food. In appreciation of a good meal, he would always end with “My compliments to the chef.” He enjoyed traveling. His trips to Martha’s Vineyard and camping trips with childhood friends, the late Bill Gates and Danny Brundage were treasured escapes, where he embraced the beauty of nature and the serenity it offered. David also loved Jazz music and Art, and over the years, he compiled a beautiful collection of art pieces, many Jazz related. Above all, David’s greatest devotion was to his family. Moving to Cape Coral after retirement in 2020, he wanted to be closer to his children. He loved them more than life itself. His warmth, generosity, and unwavering support will be remembered by all who knew him.

David was a gentleman, and will be missed by many, including many childhood friends, with whom he still kept contact. His legacy is one of family, friendship and resilience.

He is survived by his three loving children, Melanie Eiland and her husband, Trevor, Rayne Simmons and William Summler and his wife, Stacy; one sister, Lois Simmons; adored grandchildren, Chyanne Abrahams, Sydney Eiland, Micah Eiland; William Summler Jr and Stacen Summler. As well as many beloved extended family members and friends.

An informal service to be held at a private residence on Saturday December 13th at 1pm. Flowers can be sent to Coral Ridge Funeral Home, 950 Chiquita Boulevard S., Cape Coral, FL ℅ Melanie Eiland.