He’s Gone
January 8th, 2008 by Jeff Simmermon
I just got off the phone with my mother, who reports that my grandfather died this morning quickly and painlessly. She’s in the middle of funeral arrangements right now and will tell me when to get on the train to Virginia sometime tonight. Right now everyone’s moving too much to grieve and I can’t think about a damn thing.
He’ll be missed.

January 8th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
Jeff, I am so sorry. What a huge loss for you and your family. I’ve really enjoyed reading about your family in your blog, and your granddad was a wonderful person. I’ll be thinking about you.
-Katie
January 8th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
Ditto for me. Good luck to your family this week, esp your mom and grandma. I will be thinking of you all.
January 8th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
I’m sorry to hear of your loss, Jeff. I doubt anyone can find words to fully explain such a loss. All I have at times like these are trite platitudes, my friend. And, both you and your grandfather deserve a lot better than that.
Still, from what I read yesterday, there’s a lot of your grandfather in you, isn’t there?
I think that says more about the man than anything.
Be well, Jeff. My best to you and yours.
January 8th, 2008 at 1:27 pm
I’m so sorry. Thank you for letting me get to know your grandfather (a little). My condolences to your family.
January 8th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
I’m really sorry to hear that Jeff…
May his soul rest in peace! Sorry again for your loss..
January 8th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Jeff, Jess, everyone, I’m so sorry.
You knew he knew, didn’t you. I’m glad it was a nice Christmas at least, and he could enjoy your special girlfriend.
I may just have to have some ice cream tonight in his honor, just cuz.
January 8th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
So sorry to hear of your loss, Jeff.
January 8th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
Just read your ice cream letter and got a little teary. You’re a good guy, Jeff. Much love from one Allen to all the Simmermons.
January 8th, 2008 at 4:43 pm
I so very, very sorry for your loss.
January 8th, 2008 at 6:38 pm
Jeff,
I was also very close to my grandfather who died in 1997. I remember exactly how it feels.
Please get in contact with us if you’re going to be in DC any time soon. We’d like to help in any way we can, so give a call if you need to talk.
I agree with the person above: thanks for letting us get to know your grandfather through this blog.
Best,
Damon
January 9th, 2008 at 12:14 am
Jeff, I am so sorry. If you need anything, please let me know.
Condolences to your entire family.
January 9th, 2008 at 7:41 am
Giant, sympathetic hugs to you and the rest of the Simmermon family.
January 9th, 2008 at 10:04 am
Dang. Sorry to hear this news. My sympathies.
January 9th, 2008 at 10:36 am
Oh Jeff . . we IMed yesterday and I hadn’t seen this yet. I’m so sorry. Hugs to you and your fam. xo.
January 9th, 2008 at 10:49 am
thinking of you….
xoxo
January 9th, 2008 at 6:47 pm
Positive Vibes to you, your family and your grandfather’s friends.
He sure seems to have a sparkle in his eyes and a bit of mischief about him in that picture.
January 10th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
My sincere condolences…..
January 13th, 2008 at 8:51 pm
JEFF! I’m so sorry. I lost my gramps two months ago. It totally sucks, they are always missed so much.