The celebrity weight-loss instructor passed away in his Los Angeles home on Saturday 13 July, one day after his 76th birthday. The cause of death is currently being investigated. On Tuesday, the star's longtime publicist Tom Estey issued a statement to People on behalf of his family. "The Simmons family is overwhelmed and beyond grateful for the outpouring of love shown to our beloved Dicky. He is up above smiling down at all of you.” "There will be no further comment from the family at this time other than to kindly ask the media..."