Tributes Paid After Noel-Simmons Passes Away
[Updated] The sudden passing of fitness trainer and one time political candidate Devrae Noel-Simmons has prompted an outpouring of tributes on social media this evening [Jan 8].
A graduate of Howard University, the former bodybuilder was a veteran fitness trainer who assisted many of the island’s athletes over the years. His involvement with sports and fitness spanned over two decades and across multiple genres.
He worked with the Bermuda Bodybuilding Federation, promoted the Ms Fitness contests in the 1990s and also assisted the Bermuda National San Shou Association.
He managed International Fitness Pros Training Academy, hosted fitness summer camps for young people and was also heavily involved with rugby – as a player, coach and working in a PR capacity for the Bermuda Rugby Football Union.
Mr Noel Simmons was also involved in the security field, and managed DPA Protection Services.
Sporting a mohawk hairstyle for the campaign, he threw his hat into the political ring back in 2010 when he contested the Warwick South Central bye-election, running against Marc Bean and Sylvan Richards.
Mr Noel Simmons pictured at a past Good Friday event with his son Dante:
After news of his passing started circulating, his Facebook page filled with condolences, with many paying tribute to a man they called a gentle giant.
One friend called him “A bigger than life man with a matching smile,” while another said he was a “huge guy with even more huge love for this island and those around him.”
Athletes paying tribute on social media included professional footballer Jonte Smith and top ranked squash player Micah Franklin.
Mr Noel Simmons, 45, leaves behind his wife Susie, young son Dante, and numerous other family and friends.
Garon Wilkinson of the Bermuda Sanshou Association
Update: Garon Wilkinson of the Bermuda Sanshou Association [BSA] recounts the help Mr Noel-Simmons gave their organisation, noting he did it at no cost for many years.
Mr Wilkinson said, “Devrae Noel-Simmons was one of the original members of BSA and was very instrumental in the forming of our organization back in 2005. He served as our first strength and conditioning coach and til this year trained a number of our top athletes.
“He was the very first team coach and corner man along with Damion Wilson for myself and BSA co-founder Reuben Bean when we competed in our debut international san shou competition at the Arnold Classic in March of 2006.
“Devrae also served as a coach and corner man for BSA’s very first Pan American Championships in Toronto that same year, and then the following year in 2007 at our first World Wushu Championships in China. His lovely wife Suzie also accompanied us to the championships and served as massage therapist.
“Devrae dedicated numerous hours to our team and trained a number of our athletes for no compensation for years. One of his companies, International Fitness Pros (IFP) was the sponsor of our wear to our first world championships and completely outfitted a team of fourteen for our trip to China. Devrae offered a number of our athletes an opportunity to work with his security company as well. Devrae was always willing to give!
“I remember the day I met Devrae as if it was yesterday. If I check my old running logs I could tell you the exact date and time. I believe I was around 15 at the time when I was developing in my track and field career.
“My dad was working out at Total Fitness Gym in town at the time and I ran from home in Southampton to town, picked up my dad at the gym and ran back with him. During my short stop at the gym, my dad introduced me to Devrae. He had just returned from overseas and of course was in incredible shape.
“From that date on we always maintained a relationship and at that point in my life he was like a big brother to me. As I became older we became very good friends and when I told him of the thoughts I had with regards to starting full contact fighting in Bermuda, he indicated to me that he was with me 100%. And he has been, as a coach and as a friend, every step of the way. He will be sadly missed by me and every one of BSA.”
Former UBP Leader Kim Swan
Former UBP Leader Kim Swan said, “Cindy and I are shocked and saddened on hearing the news of the passing of Devrae Noel-Simmons.
“Devrae loved his wife Sue and their son Dante who he proudly introduced to everyone he met. He wanted what was best for his family and was so proud of them – that was an admirable trait.
“Personally, Devrae is a relative of mine and I am very good friends with his mother Relda Wellman, we also share a love for the game of golf.
“Devrae will go down in history as the last candidate to appear on the ballot paper and represent the now defunct United Bermuda Party.
“He became involved with the United Bermuda Party in 2008 soon after I became Opposition Leader – he reached out to me on Front Street in the presence of his wife Sue and said he wanted to get involved in politics – later expressing a desire to become a candidate.
“When first interviewed by the Candidates Selection Committee he was advised to first get involved in a branch where he could gain experience at the constituency level.
“This task he did most admirably in Sandys South – ironically where I first started my political career and where our family hailed. I fondly remember the very successful fundraiser for the United Bermuda Party he helped to arrange in Sandys Parish at Somerset Country Squire. It marked a new energy we were prepared to launch in the west end.
“When the Warwick bye-election came around because of the retirement of Dr. Ewart Brown, the UBP Candidate Selection Committee choose Devrae as the candidate – he lived in Warwick and was prepared to become a local based representative.
“His candidacy was controversial first because of his mohawk hair style which raised a few eyebrows and later when it became public that he had a previous experience with the law – but we stuck by him based on the commitment he demonstrated at the branch level within the Sandys branch and his willingness to get stuck in to make Bermuda a better place.
“Unfortunately, that candidacy culminated with Devrae taking ill with acute appendicitis and being hospitalised prior to polling day and his bid for a seat unsuccessful.
“In addition to his world wind encounter with politics and his love for his family, Devrae also loved sport – especially rugby. He operated a fitness club out of the Bermuda Squash Club and owned a security company.
“My heart goes out to his widow Sue, son Dante and mother Relda.
“May he Rest in Peace.”
Former WWE Wrestler John Layfield
Former professional wrestler John “JBL” Layfield, a resident of Bermuda who works closely with the rugby programme, tweeted that he and Bermuda lost a great friend, saying Mr Noel-Simmons “did wonders for kids on the Island.”
Bermuda, and I, lost a great friend today, so sad about @DevraeNSimmons -RIP. DId wonders for kids on the Island, may God bless his family
— John Layfield (@JCLayfield) January 9, 2014
Senator Jeffrey Baron
Senator Jeffrey Baron, the Junior Minister of National Security, said: “Firstly I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to Sue and Dante. Your husband and dad – and you both – have a community of friends here for you always.
“Devrae and I spent hours discussing contemporary security issues of Bermuda. Few people on this island could express, from an operational perspective, security trends of licensed premises and large-scale events.
“He saw, heard and managed high-tension security situations in an impressively effective and professional way – it helps to be built like a hulk.
“And while the majority of my time with Devrae was spent discussing such matters it will always be the shorter, more lighthearted conversations we shared many mornings as we both took our sons to school. I will choose to reflect on these moments when I think of him.
“His image was singular – but don’t be misled. Behind that imposing man with loud hair and tattoos was a tremendously caring husband and father who absolutely melted when his son smiled at him.
“Devrae will be remembered for his devotion to Bermuda’s youth and sport. He volunteered countless hours mentoring, coaching and educating young Bermudians on and of the rugby pitch.
“He’ll be remembered for his singularity. Many people will remember him fondly – in many different ways. His reach extended beyond sport, beyond politics and beyond his larger than life image. Rest in peace”.
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Very Sorry to read this tragic news…he was a real`nice guy.
I wish his Wife and Son all the best that Life has to offer.
Rest in Peace.
ONLY an ignorant rat could click the dislike!
there are people that work this site…I mean they actually ‘work’ this site with a single purpose….so saddening
My condolences to the family. This is in deed sad news to come to grips with. May God be with the family during this most difficult time. Special thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow.
Wishing you as much peace as possible during this difficult time. God Bless.
My deepest and sincerest condolences to Mr. Simmons family and friends.
I have known Devrae since I was kid. I wouldn’t say he was someone that I would consider a great friend since I rarely saw him. However, he was always courteous and went out of his was to say hello to everyone. Great guy, that will be missed by friends, family and the community. Rest in Peace my friend.
My condolences to the family. Rest in Peace Dev. You will be missed.
Wow this is something words is hard to find, Denzil and family you have my condolences.I have not fully wrapped my mind on the loss of Lorrie Bennett just a few weeks ago and now Devrae, we all grew up together and ran in and out of each others houses,Devrae use to try and keep up with his brother Denzil and I while we terrorize the neighborhood.
To his wife and son and all the family,friends and colleagues,Devrae was a bigger then life character, but had a heart of gold. words of comfort are hard to come by when it hits this close sometimes but our prayers are with you and for you at this time.
Denzil is his uncle.
Brother when we grew up he was introduced as his younger brother, but thanks for the clarification, I wont get into family stuff.
Words can not express… There are too many sudden deaths in Bermuda.
My condolences to his wife and son.
His political run in the bye election was a for runner to the present day OBA.
Please posters – no dislikes!!
2 more ignorant rats clicking the dislike,I hope the same thing happens to one of your family or partner,then see how you like it.
relax dude. People are disliking the comment “There are too many sudden deaths in Bermuda” because it’s a pretty silly comment to make. Very few deaths are planned and Bermuda isn’t the only place in the world where people die. It’s just a fact of life.
Condolences to the family.
You need to take a break. How old are you child? Never mind just go back into the corner, sit there and keep your mouth closed.
You should still be here my friend. May your beautiful family be supported from all friends and family to keep your legacy alive. RIP mate.
who so ever clicked dislike I got a one for them smh
Theres no shortage of idiots in Bermuda’ -
the same people who clicked [ Disliked ] on a positive comment you made about
something unfortunate as this could likely be a Political Fanatic,Gang Member,or a person
with no moral standards.
That awkward moment when you’re scrolling and unwantingly click like/dislike < < <
We were on opposite sides of the fence politically and nfl wise.yet he never let an opportunity pass with out giving me a bear hug.
First met him while I was at Bekeleyand he was at saltus . He played for dandytown while I played for wolves as teenagers.
I thinkhe even took oneof our Berkeley girls from us during the 80s
Respect to a fellow Bermudian
Very – only flittingly so – did he have a Berkeleyite girl. She later came to her senses and went on to marry a Berkeleyite (chuckle). May you rest in peace Devrae. God bless your family.
He was a good man who I knew WAY longer than either of would care to admit!
He will be missed.
I am in complete shock and filled with great sadness. My heart felt condolences to his wife,son and family. R.I.P Devrae, you will be missed!
It is with extreme shock and disbelief that both Jenni and I realise the truth of the enormous loss of one of Bermuda’s true protector of good and peace and love. Your sincerity, honest charm and genuine smile will be missed in a massive way. Devrae, I just wish that I may one day have a heart as GIGANTIC as yours brother.. <3
May he rest in peace.. and our most heartfelt condolences go to his relatives, his wife and child and those close to him who may be hugely affected by this senseless loss..
all these dislikes just proves to me that Bermuda has a lot of SICK and NASTY MINDED Rats posing as human beings.
Yet you have not said anything positive towards his family! Smh! Rip my fellow Bermudian, and condolences to all his family and friends! @ nothin….any positive words from you? Ignore the negative my friend.
Look at the first post Betty.
so sad, RIP Devrae
Devrae was one of the best of us. I have fond memories of his sports passion while at school together and through social media became convincted of his passion for his family and his Bermuda. May you rest in peace Devrae. And may let us all come together to mourn your loss and celebrate your gifts.
rest in peace Devrae, you were a brilliant rugby coach and a brilliant person. you will be missed
Our sincerest condolences to Susie and the family. A wonderful trainer and loving person we will always remember
.
GONE TOO SOON! R.I.P.
Rest in Peace…. Condolences to his family…. Great guy…. Known him all my life…. My son enjoyed Devraes interaction with the youth rugby program.. .. Will most certainly be missed…
Kind of crazy the “dislikes” on positive comments offering Condolences…. Definitely speaks to the mindset of certain individuals…
Never, ever ceases to amaze me that people can insert negative vibes at times such as these.. speaks to the mindset of a growing number of insidious pr_ks that exist in this Paradise lost…
Only the good die young.
RIP my friend and my sincerest condolences to the family:(
No dought about it – Devrae was one nice guy – infact you could not find a nice guy than this!
He was also a person who got involved in more positive than negetuve. — and what negetive he may have
gotten into he got out of.- I know that in recent years he trained a lot of people into living a healthier life
and dared to look cool as a politician.
This is a Lost’
Devrae RIP.
I didn’t know him, but he spoke to me. Nobody ever speaks to me……………..
My condolences to his family. I pray that God will help his wife and son to get through this difficult time.
I remember Devrae giving me bodybuilding tips when I was like 18 and going back n forth to university for a degree in that field. Devrae gave me amazing tips that outshone all the other nonsense people were talking at the time, and proof was in his pure strength. I have seen him deadlift 800lbs in person! I will always remember him, and I am shocked that he passed so suddenly. May the force be with you, Devrae!
my condolences to my friend and his family that he leaves behind, you will be surely missed. Mom be strong as I wish I could be there.
The loss of Devrae will be felt around the world!! I live in the States and visit Bermuda about twice a year, I met him 17 years ago…. My future visits just will not be the same I always knew I had someone I could call and he was always looking after us when we were out at the local clubs!!! My heart felt sympathy goes out to all of Bermuda, his wife Sue , son and Mother!!!! Much love from Jersey!!!
SHOCKING. As I always say, the next hour is promised to no one. Devrae was a committed husband, father and coach. He taught and trained many youth rugby programes. My son is devastated as are many more over is passing after just last week was training under is direction and attending an overseas training camp in Toronto last year for the under 16′s. I will miss those conversations after training sessions and hearing his future plans for rugby tours and training. To his young son, wife and family I pray.
RIP Devrae, you will long live in our minds and hearts.
My condolences to the family and friends of Devrae he was a really nice man and he will be missed by those who appreciated, knew and loved him.
Played ball with him at Town…the kid use to come from way up or down the country to train 3 weekdays and to play weekends….such was his mindset through adulthood….anyone hitting the dislike key either didn’t know him, or is just a idiot.
sorry Devrae
Condolences to Devrae’s family and friends. Thoughts and prayers are with his family at such a hard time right now.
RIP Devrae RIP
My heart felt condolences to the family. Peace Be Still, God Bless.
To all those that find nasty things to say -remember death will come knocking at ur families door one day-Remember he has a wife and son that is in agony now-my thoughts are with his wife and son that he truly adored-rest in peace Devroe
My condolences go out to Devrae’s family and friends. It was always fun to see him and share a joke or two. He was a nice guy indeed. He was so cool. May he R.I.P.
I did not know him.
Just saw him in the emergency
dept. I left him there yesterday morning.
I nodded to him.
He smile at me and spoke.
I hope that Devrae’s wife and son can find some comfort in knowing that Devrae touched so many lives. He was a gentle giant and proof that people can rise above challenges they might encounter and make meaningful contribitions to the lives of others.
Devrae’s positive attitude,kind words and warm smile will be a miss.
Sleep well, gentle giant.
Always had a smile and hello. RIP mate.
Devrae was always a larger than life character coming through school. He was a positive person that would joke around with anyone. In later years, we would bump into each other and he was always interested in what was happening in your life. I’ll miss his presence in our community.
Devrae was directly responsible for helping me lose 40 pounds following the birth of my son and being in the best shape of my life. No one has ever motivated me more than he has. I am so saddened to hear this news and know he will be surely missed!
Rip to that guy he was a tank
Rest In Peace Cuz!!!
I cannot express how stunned and saddened I am by this news. I can only record positive experiences of him. Just before he died he was trying to get my son into rugby. Many years ago, he was my personal trainer. In between, we remained in sporadic contact, sporadic, but always positive. I feel for his wife and son, although I have never met them. What a loss. Rest in peace Devrae.
r.i.p coach devrae
Smh…God has truly taken a good man today who will be sadly missed by many. Devrae and I grow up together at West Park Lane we BMX together played for the same soccer team (Dandy Town) even chased girls together (I did all the chasing tho Mr Smooth took the laid back approach…lol) and tho we went our separate ways he never missed the opportunity to show me love for he knew it was what I needed in the world I live in. When I say I am going to miss this gentle giant it is a understatement he was a true example of a real man!!! My condolences to his family.
As a graphic designer and printer business owner, for the past 6+ years, I did all of his business card designs & printing for both his fitness & security businesses. Devrae and I just had some communication two weeks ago in reference to making some changes to his cards. Wow! Sad to hear the news that he has passed away.
He was an upfront and nice guy to do business with.