Practically trained as a machinist and with years of experience in one of the most reputable plants in New England, Richard John Simmons took up the automotive industry by representation of popular cars and trucks in Bristol and in a dozen years has erected an enterprise that is known throughout this section of Rhode Island for its fine work and service. Although devoted to his business and to the service of the automobile public, Mr. Simmons is an earnest citizen in his attitude toward all public affairs that are promulgated for the advancement of business interests or the happiness of the people. He is also fraternally associated, and has occasional periods for recreation, while his favorite sport is hunting.
He was born in Montville, Connecticut, January 14, 1894, a son of Isaac Samuel, deceased, who was a carriage painter by trade, a native of Warren, Rhode Island, and a veteran of the Spanish-American War; and Josephine (Forcier) Simmons, who was born in Connecticut. He was educated in the public schools of Warren, Rhode Island, and afterward learned the machinist trade, which he followed for twelve years, during the last five of which he was in charge of the marine engine department of the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company of Bristol. In 1917 he undertook the independent occupation of automobile repairing and in 1922 formed a partnership with Louis A. Beauregard and established the Franklin Garage enterprise, which still functions and is the largest service station in Bristol. Mr. Simmons is independent in politics and is a member of the Rotary and Seekonk Gun clubs.
He married, in 1929, Helen M. Darrah, of Hartford, Connecticut.
Source: Carroll, Charles. Rhode Island: Three Centuries of Democracy, vol 3 of 4. New York: Lewis historical Pub. Co., 1932.