Ellsworth Simmonds

Ellsworth (Elzy) Simmonds, 95, of Hamden, CT, entered into eternal rest on October 4, 2024 after a long and full life. He was born on January 28, 1929 in Manhattan, NY to the late Dorcas (Forbes) Simmonds and John Joseph Simmonds who relocated their family from the Caribbean island of Nevis, settling in the Manhattan. Elzy was the sixth of Dorcas and John’s nine children. As a young boy, he was known for his mischievous grin and insatiable curiosity, always getting into playful trouble with his siblings and cousins. From sneaking off to explore new places to inventing elaborate games, his spirited nature and love for adventure were the foundation of a lifetime filled with lively stories and cherished memories. During World War II, Elzy joined the Army. While deployed in the Philippines, Elzy and his comrades were notified of the end of the War. He was honorably discharged in 1948 and upon returning home, the 19-year-old Ellsworth asked for his longtime girlfriend, Edna Joshua’s, hand in marriage. Elzy and the late Edna brought into the world three children, Thomas (Joanne) Simmonds, Carl Simmonds, and the late Cynthia (Charles) Forman of whom Elzy was always very proud. Elzy spent a few years in New York before moving to Connecticut to begin his post-service career. Ellsworth was a dedicated public servant and community leader whose career spanned over six decades. He became a beloved figure in New Haven, serving as Alderman for the 40th Ward where he advocated tirelessly for his constituents. Elzy’s dedication to his community extended beyond politics; he was a proud construction worker and served as President of the Local Union for the Laborer’s International Union of North America, where he fought for fair wages and conditions for his colleagues. He also served as Building Superintendent for what was formerly known as the King George Apartments, ensuring residents were well cared for. Elzy’s generosity and kindness extended beyond his professional life. One of his proudest accomplishments involved organizing a memorable trip for a group of neighborhood kids to the Bronx Zoo. Later in life, Elzy continued to contribute to the city he loved, working as a building attendant and concierge at 59 Elm Street into his mid-80s, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met with his warmth and compassion. Elzy was a man of diverse interests and simple joys that brought a smile to everyone who knew him. He developed a love for the violin as a child and continued to play throughout his adulthood, maintaining his appreciation for music over the years. A true lover of good food, Elzy had a particular fondness for crab legs, which he enjoyed with friends and family whenever the occasion allowed, and he never turned down a hearty stack of pancakes for breakfast. He also had a penchant for testing his luck with lotto tickets, always believing his next scratch-off would be the big winner. Elzy’s hobbies were a testament to his zest for life and ability to find joy in the small moments. His calm and social nature, quick wit, and generosity were evident in the way he formed deep connections with everyone he met, whether through his professional roles or personal interactions. And, of course, no one could forget his signature phrase, “Can you dig it?”—a testament to his upbeat spirit and unique charm. He will be sorely missed. He was predeceased by his beloved second wife, Eleanor V. Simmonds, with whom he shared nearly four decades of cherished memories. Their bond was a cornerstone of his life, and he treasured the time they spent together. Later in life, Elzy found companionship and love again with his dear wife, Ruth Toms Blount, who stood by his side until his final days. Elzy and Ruth shared 14 years of marriage, finding laughter and joy in one another’s presence. To cherish his memory and honor his legacy, Ellsworth leaves behind his wife, Ruth Toms Blount of Hamden, CT, as well as a large, loving family that includes his sons, Carl Simmonds and Thomas (Joanne) Simmonds of NY, son-in-law Charles Forman, and bonus children Scott (Rachel) Lewis and Marlo Lewis of CT. He is also survived by sisters-in-law Lonnie T. Snyder of East Haven, CT and Joann W. Blake (Richard) of Potomac, MD; a special cousin, Carolyn Leath-Stokes of Greensboro, NC; and a godchild, Ashley Griffin of Bethany, CT. Elzy was blessed with 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and a host of relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Elzy was preceded in death by each of his siblings: Milton Simmonds, Pearline Simmonds Hanley, Ezekiel Simmonds, Josephine Simmonds Miller, Anita (George) Simmonds Henry, Joshua Simmonds, Dorothy Simmonds Geter, and Delphina Simmonds; his daughter, Cynthia Forman; his first wife and mother of his sons, Edna Joshua Simmonds; his second wife, Eleanor Valeriano Simmonds; a sister-in-law, Connie Alexander; and a daughter-in-law, Deloris Simmonds. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to VA Connecticut Healthcare System in memory of Ellsworth Simmonds, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT 06516.

Ellsworth Simmonds

January 28, 1929 - October 4, 2024