Richard Simmons Shared Uplifting Life Message Months Before His Passing

Richard Simmons shared an uplifting message about embracing life in the months before his death. The fitness guru, who passed away at age 76, spoke about living "life to the fullest" in a heartfelt Facebook post in March, where he also provided tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. “I have some news to tell you. Please don’t be sad. I am … dying. Oh, I can see your faces now. The truth is we all are dying. Every day we live we are getting closer to our death,” Simmons began the post.

“Why am I telling you this? Because I want you to enjoy your life to the fullest every single day,” he continued. “Get up in the morning and look at the sky… count your blessings and enjoy.” Simmons encouraged his followers to stay active, suggesting his workout videos on YouTube as a resource for motivation.

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He concluded his message with, “There is something else very important that you must do. Tell the ones that you love that you love them. Hug those people and children who you really care for. A big hug really goes a long way… Live today and don’t forget to pray.”

Simmons died the day after his 76th birthday, his longtime publicist, Tom Estey, confirmed to PEOPLE. He passed away at his Los Angeles home with no foul play suspected, according to TMZ. In the months leading up to his death, the fitness icon frequently posted personal updates on Facebook.

Following his March post, Simmons received concerned reactions due to his mention of “dying.” However, a longtime friend clarified to PEOPLE that Simmons was “healthy” and that the post was meant to be “purely inspirational.” Before his birthday in July, Simmons spoke to PEOPLE about his celebration plans.

"The candle will probably be on a zucchini. You know, I'm a vegetarian," he said. Simmons expressed feeling "good" about turning 76, stating, "I am grateful that I'm here, that I am alive for another day. I'll spend my birthday doing what I do every day, which is to help people."

–Farheen Ali