Baron Keith Simmons

Celebrating the Life of Baron Keith Simmons April 10, 1966 – June 26, 2025 “I don’t have two good nickels to rub together, but I have four good men – I feel like a billionaire.” Baron Keith Simmons was born on April 10, 1966, at Metropolitan Hospital in East Harlem, New York, to his devoted mother, Ruthine Simmons. The youngest of three, Baron was deeply loved and cared for by his mother and older siblings, Denise and Allen, growing up in the Castle Hill section of the Bronx. Although he never knew his father, Baron found strength and guidance in the love of his family. From a young age, he became determined to grow into the kind of man he needed — strong, dependable, and full of heart. His natural sense of humor, curiosity, and charm lit up every space he entered. Baron was a gifted athlete, especially in football. He would often say, “I would’ve gone to the NFL, but God had other plans.” And those plans led him to his most meaningful role — that of a father. Baron made the selfless decision to give up his sports dreams to work and care for his firstborn son, Lil Baron. It was a decision rooted in love and responsibility, and it shaped the rest of his life. At just 15 years old, Baron met his childhood sweetheart, Brenda — a love that would grow alongside the family they built together. He was committed to being present for his children no matter what life brought. He was their rock, their protector, and their biggest fan. Baron’s hands were rarely still. As a boy, he was the one to call when something broke — taking apart and reassembling toys just to understand how they worked. That inquisitive nature led to a successful career in construction and glass cutting at Bottle Stone, where he proudly worked for many years. A graduate of Adlai E. Stevenson High School, Baron was known for his booming voice, bold spirit, and sharp sense of humor. He told stories with such passion and detail — often more than once — and each time was like the first. He was unapologetically honest, always genuine, and never afraid to speak his truth. More than anything, Baron cherished his family. His pride in his four sons knew no bounds. “I don’t have two good nickels to rub together,” he’d say, “but I have four good men. I feel like a billionaire.” Baron was preceded in death by his beloved mother Ruthine Simmons, his brother Allen Simmons, and his daughter Jasmine Johnson. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty — carried on by his sons: Baron, Aaron, Daron, and Jaron Johnson; his grandchildren: Jasmine, Jada, Uriyah, Paige, Kylie, Aaron, and Ryann Johnson; his sister Denise Page; nephews Justin and Jarius; his childhood sweetheart, Brenda; and cousin Jenielle Emani Rowe; along with many devoted relatives, friends, and colleagues who were blessed to know him. He also leaves behind a lifetime of unforgettable memories, hard-earned wisdom, and the powerful example of what it means to love unconditionally. Baron’s presence was larger than life — his voice, his laugh, his love. May we all carry forward his light and let his memory continue to inspire strength, compassion, and unity.

Baron Keith Simmons

April 10, 1966 - June 26, 2025