Richard Simmons Laid to Rest in Los Angeles

Richard Simmons has been laid to rest.

Simmons’ longtime publicist Tom Estey confirmed the news to ET on Friday, with a statement from the late fitness guru’s brother, Lenny Simmons.

“Our beloved Dicky was laid to rest this morning surrounded by only family and closest friends,” he said. “We pray for your continued love and support during this very difficult time.”

Simmons died on Saturday at his home in Los Angeles, just one day after his 76th birthday. The cause of his death is not yet known, though a statement from the LAFD earlier this week said he died from “apparent natural causes.”

The health and wellness icon had been notoriously reclusive in his final years, and addressed fans’ concerns to ET in an  exclusive 2016 phone interview.

“I love all the people who worry about me,” he said of leaving public life. “But it was time for me to take some time to be by myself.”

“This is how I want to live my life right now,” Simmons added. “And to all the people that are worried about me, please don’t be. If I was in any trouble, if I was hurting in any way, I would reach out. It is time right now for Richard Simmons to take care of Richard Simmons.”

Earlier this week, Simmons’ family shared their gratitude for the outpouring of messages they’ve received following his death.

“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,” read the statement from Estey. “There will no further comment from the family at this time other than to kindly ask the media to respect Richard’s memory and grant us the time to grieve as we so desperately need to do.” 

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