Karim Simmons

Karim Robert Simmons was born on November 15, 1967 to the late Barbara and Willie Simmons. Karim was the 3rd of 7 children and a very jolly child. At the age of 5 Karim was diagnosed with mild retardation and limited learning capability. With the limited resources in the public education system his mother chose to have him educated in private live-in facilities. From Thorndike Hall to Edenwald to Hawthorne, NY his family was always involved. Karim worked hard and proved he had no limitations. As Karim got older with the support of his family and programs such as YAI, Vesid and HHRC, Karim was able to not only work but also live on his own and handle his own finances. In the 80’s after being interviewed for television at one of his yearly trips to the Thanksgiving Day Parade he was to discover his biggest passion of being a mini celebrity. At any time you could open your newspaper or turn on your television and see Karim. In the 1990’s Karim would come upon another pleasant chapter in his life when he met Joan Shannon. Joan not having any children of her own became a second mother to Karim after losing his mom in 1991. Karim and Joan spent many years together until her death in 2006. Karim worked for Bridges and Tunnels until his health prevented him in 2010. Although never one to be idle he spent many days on outings and visits with his best friend Lavan Booker and family. Karim had a zest for life that allowed him to live life fully in his short 44 years of life. Karim was preceded in death by eldest brother Brando Simmons in 2000. He is also leaving with loving memories 2 brothers, Hosea and Durand, 3 sisters, Contessa, Fluerd’Lis and Keesha. Nephews, Quinton, J’Quan, Charles, Andre, Christopher Anthony, Timothy Dayvon, Zavelin, Quincy and Brian. Nieces, Velvet, Vean, Quiying Quince, Fleurd’Lis Contessa, Seven Brooke Ziyani Brooklyn, Brielle and Nyla Nicole. And a host of friends and family.

Special thanks to Mr. Mike Regan