Farewell celebration for fitness guru Richard Simmons in New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Fitness guru Richard Simmons grew up in New Orleans and on Saturday, Oct. 5 was a celebration in the French Quarter to honor his life.

His family and friends in New Orleans wanted a farewell celebration to honor the man who became famous for his inspiring “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” workout videos in the 1980s.

Simmons attended what is now Brother Martin High School and he attended church at St. Louis Cathedral as a boy.

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Simmons’ brother Lenny gave the eulogy at the memorial mass at St. Louis Cathedral, where he said that his brother was buried in his signature workout tank top and shorts. He ended his eulogy by saying that Richard will be forever “Sweating with the Holies.”

After the memorial mass, a special group workout was held in Jackson Square to honor Simmons, followed by a second-line parade through the French Quarter.

Fans of Simmons even attended this celebration dressed like their favorite “fitness king.”

Simmons died in July in Los Angeles at the age of 76 years old.

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