Donald Richard Simmons, 88, of South Windsor, beloved husband of Linda (Martin) Simmons for 64 years, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, January 3, 2026. Born in Boston, MA, he was the son of the late Harold and Dorothy (Kimball) Simmons, and grandson of his beloved grandparents Horace and Marion (Jackson) Kimball.

Don was a proud member of the Connecticut State Police for 34 years serving in Troops K, D, C, and H, as well as the Eastern District Traffic and Major Crime Squads. His last assignment prior to his retirement was service as Chief of Staff to the Commissioner.

Prior to joining the State Police as a Trooper, Don attended Michigan State University and was a standout baseball player who was invited to try out for the Detroit Tigers. He was also an honorably discharged member of the United States Army.

Don had an affinity to the favorite toy truck of his childhood (Smith-Miller), and he managed to amass one of the largest collections in the country. He was very proud of this collection and traveled the country to meet with and talk trucks with other enthusiasts.

Along with his wife Linda, he leaves his children Randall Simmons and Stacey Simmons, niece Cindy Hall and her husband Mike, nephew Greg Simmons and his partner Jeff Jones, and his special cousin Ken Kimball; as well as many other relatives and close friends. He was predeceased by his only sibling, adored brother Ronald (Janice) Simmons.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the John F. Tierney Funeral Home, 219 W. Center Street in Manchester, from 2-5 p.m. The burial will be a private family event. A celebration of Don's life will be held in the near future.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or the CT State Police Museum in Meriden.