Richard Simmons’ longtime housekeeper, Teresa Reveles, has opened up about the fitness icon’s final moments and what she believes caused his death. In an interview with People published on July 29, Teresa shared her suspicions, saying, “When I saw him, he looked peaceful.” Noting that Simmons’ hands were balled into fists, she added, “That’s why I know it was a heart attack. I had a heart attack a few years ago, and my hands did the same’, told The New York Post.
Teresa, who had worked for Simmons for 35 years, found him in his bedroom and has been struggling with her grief since his passing. Despite the emotional toll, she declined the opportunity to speak at a later time, insisting, “No, I want to celebrate Richard. He died happy.”
Simmons passed away of natural causes at the age of 76 on July 13, told TMZ. Though often referred to as his housekeeper, Teresa clarified that “someone else” had filled that role for over 40 years. Instead, her responsibilities included shopping, overseeing household chores, and cooking for Simmons. Reflecting on their long relationship, she mentioned, “August 9th is our 36th anniversary.”
Teresa fondly recalled memories of Simmons, including a story about a group of skunks that frequently visited his backyard in West Hollywood, California. Simmons would feed them peanuts by hand, eventually earning their trust enough to touch their noses. “‘Richard! They probably have rabies!’ I would tell him,” she recounted.
In the days leading up to his death, Simmons remained active on social media, thanking fans for their birthday wishes. He shared a lengthy Facebook post on July 12, detailing the history of birthday celebrations and reminiscing about his own childhood milestones. “When I taught class at Slimmons, on my birthday they would have special cakes made for me. One was a sheet cake airbrushed with my picture on it…one was a Barbie doll and her dress was the cake…also what about that cake with a big Disco ball on top,” he wrote. “It was my birthday when we taped Groovin in the House…that one was a three-dimensional three-foot cake in the shape of one of my Dalmatians…You know I cried.”
Simmons rose to fame in the 70s and 80s with his innovative approach to fitness marketing. Growing up obese, he developed a passion for exercise and noticed that gyms often catered to those who were already fit. This inspired him to create gyms specifically for people struggling to lose weight, revolutionizing the fitness industry.
The fitness guru’s legacy is marked by his dedication to helping others achieve their health goals, his vibrant personality, and his compassionate spirit. As Teresa and his fans mourn his loss, they also celebrate the joy and positivity he brought into their lives.