Saints mourn the loss of cherished former equipment manager

Simmons Day, who spent more than four decades as New Orleans Saints Equipment leader, died on Friday, the team confirmed. He was 78 years old.

Simmons was in St. Louis, his hometown, at the time of his passage.

Simmons, who was gently named “Chief”, was a nurtured member of the organization and monitored the team equipment processes for 42 years. He retired in 2014. Simmons also spent a decade as the Saints Alumni and Legends coordinator.

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After retirement, Simmons became the longest -running employee of the history of Saints.

Saintsa Gayle Benson owner posted a statement on behalf of the entire organization shortly after the passing of Simmons.

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“Our thoughts are from Elaina and the Simmons family because we have suffered a significant loss with the passing of the day. He played an integral role in daily room surgery and equipment locker rooms,” ” statement reads.

“The day was proud of New Orleans Saint and touched the lives of thousands of players, coaches and members of the staff during his term, which made a significant contribution to this franchise. He will miss him extremely.”

Simmons served in the Navy and was a veteran from Vietnam.

Former Sainta Archie Manning striker described Simmons as “Best”

“The day was the best, just the best,” Manning said in a statement received by time-picayune. “He was so kind and dear and humble. He just did his job and never asked for attention. If everyone had done their job with the saints, as did the boss when I played, we would win Super Bowls.”

Simmons was available for combined preseason 858 Saints, regular seasons and post -season games during his time as a team equipment leader.

He also held a position during the 2009 season when New Orleans beat Indianapolis Colts To win the first title of Super Bowl in the history of the franchise.

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Simmons survives his wife Elaine, their three children and four grandchildren.

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