Richard Simmons buried, death investigation ongoing

Richard Simmons can finally rest in peace.

The fitness icon’s private funeral was held in Los Angeles on Friday surrounded by his family and closest friends. The news comes nearly a week after Simmons was found unconscious in his home by his housekeeper on Saturday, July 13, just one day after his 76th birthday.

His death was pronounced at the scene.

“Our beloved Dicky was laid to rest this morning surrounded by his family and closest friends,” his publicist Tom Estey told People on behalf of Simmons’ brother Lenny. “We pray for your continued love and support during this very difficult time.”

According to his death certificate obtained by TMZ, Simmons was buried at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary. A cause of death was not listed in the document, but the manner of death remains under investigation.

The weight-loss guru, whose real name was Milton Teagle “Richard” Simmons, reportedly fell in his bathroom the night before his death. Sources told the outlet that he refused to seek medical attention despite his housekeeper’s concerns.

According to insiders, he was dizzy before the fall, but he refused help because he wanted to be home for his birthday.

The Post confirmed with the LA Medical Examiner’s Office that Simmons’ cause of death was deferred and pending investigation. According to TMZ, this was also noted on his death certificate.

It can take up to three months to determine the cause.

While the TV star’s death remains a mystery, a source said police are “not currently pursuing the investigation as if a crime were involved.”

Simmons, who announced in March that he had been diagnosed with skin cancer, lived a reclusive life for over a decade before his death. While his decision to step away from the Hollywood spotlight left his fans worried, the famous aerobics instructor gave an update on his health in a rare interview published just a day before his death.

“I feel good!” the late star told People. “I’m grateful to be here and to be alive for another day. I’m going to spend my birthday doing what I do every day: helping people.”

Simmons also said he is working on a Broadway show about his life and expressed how much he misses his loyal fans.

“I know people miss me. And you know what? I miss them too,” he said. “But I can reach them by phone… and by email.”

Simmons’ brother released a heartfelt message after his death.

“I don’t want people to be sad about my brother. I want them to remember him for bringing real joy and love into people’s lives,” Lenny wrote on Simmons’ official website. “He really cared about people. He called, wrote and emailed thousands of people throughout his career to offer them help.”

Lenny urged his fans to “celebrate his life,” adding: “We are in shock. Please respect the family during this difficult time.”