Saints announce death of longtime equipment manager Dan Simmons: 'He will be greatly missed'

Dan Simmons, who spent forty years New Orleans Saints The team confirmed that the equipment manager died Friday. He is 78 years old.

Simmons died in his hometown of St. Louis.

affectionately known as “the chief”, Simmons is a precious member of the organization and has overseen the team’s equipment program for 42 years. He retired in 2014. Simmons also served as Saints Alumni and Legendary Coordinator for a decade.

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(Today’s Stephen Cole – American Sports)

After retirement, Simmons became the longest employee in Saints’ history.

Shortly after Simmons passed, Saint owner Gayle Benson made a statement on behalf of the entire organization.

Super Bowl champion Matt Stevens died at the age of 51, the family said.

“Our ideas have to do with the Elaine and Simmons families, which suffered a significant loss as Dan’s death. He played an integral role in the daily operations of the equipment room and locker room.” statement read.

“Dan is a proud New Orleans saint who touched the lives of thousands of players, coaches and staff throughout his tenure, making a significant contribution to the franchise. He will be greatly missed.”

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

(Jeff Hanisch-Imagn image)

Former Saints quarterback Archie Manning describes Simmons as “the best”

“Dan is the best, just the best,” Manning said in a statement obtained. By Times-Picayune. “He was so kind, sweet and humble. He just did his job and never sought attention. If everyone had the work that the Saints and Chiefs did when I played, we would win the Super Bowl.”