With his family by his side, Herbert “Michael” Simmons, 69, of Colonial Heights, Virginia, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, hard work, and family first values.

Herbert was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Lee Simmons and Dorthy Marie Simmons. Those left to cherish his memory include his three children: Guy Simmons (Holly), Chris Simmons (Sarah), Tania Torrence (Matt) and sisters, Darlene Weaver (James) and Nancy Morrison. He was a proud grandfather, “Grandpa” to eight, Gage (Morgan), Riley, Natalie, Madelynn, Mason, Samantha, Elizabeth, and Lucas; each who were a bright light in his world and a source of endless joy. He was extremely proud of them and treasured each of the grandchildren’s accomplishments in various activities to include school, sports/outdoor activities, band, and life milestones. He never missed an opportunity to tell those who he knew well, or a perfectly good stranger how proud he was of them.

Herbert was known for his strong faith in God and deep appreciation of the outdoors. Herbert found joy in the simple things in life; the profound beauty of nature, selflessly giving to others, celebratory/holiday cards, old western tv shows, “Gunsmoke” and his pictures and photos, which can be found by the 100’s-1000’s, strategically placed and stored throughout his house. He had a joyous love for travel and was happiest when those journeys could be shared with friends and loved ones and his telling of memorable stories that never got less humorous or old; even when we heard them for the 100th time.

As his loved ones reflect on a life well lived, they will carry forward the lessons Dad, Grandpa, and Brother embodied: God and family first, make memories together, and to hold family close. His spirit will be felt by us every day, his laughter echo with every funny story and memory we tell about him, and feeling of love and embrace that will never be forgotten. “We Love You Dad”

The family will receive friends during a visitation on Thursday, January 22, 2026 from 12:30-2:00 PM, at E. Alvin Small Funeral Home, 2033 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834.

In remembrance, the family invites friends and loved ones to honor Herbert by joining us and sharing memories on how he impacted your life, spending future time in nature, planning a trip with those you love, or simply gathering together—just as he loved to do.

May his memory be a blessing.