Brett Leon Simms

Services may be viewed live here.

Brett Leon Simms passed away on Thursday, September 10, 2026.

Brett was born January 18, 1965, the fourth child of Donald Ray Simms and Mary Elizabeth Barnard Simms. He was born in Bountiful, Utah. He came home to two older sisters and one older brother. How they loved that cute little baby! There were eight years between the four children. They became known as the "older" family. He would eventually have three younger sisters and one younger brother - the "younger" family.

Brett lived in Boise, Idaho: Sandy, Utah; and Seattle, Washington, where he started kindergarten. He went to school in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Bozeman, Montana, making dear friends in each town, before his family finally moved to Aberdeen, Idaho, where he would spend much of his childhood.

Brett loved sports and was very good at them. He played baseball, football, basketball, and participated in track. He especially loved basketball and track. With his 4 by 1 team, he set a state track record that held for many years. He loved being an Aberdeen Tiger.

His parents purchased a grocery store in Aberdeen when he was 12 years old and Brett spent many hours working in the store with his family. From a very young age, Brett was a people person with an engaging personality. He enjoyed great friendships in Aberdeen and loved his "home town"!

After high school, Brett served a Spanish speaking mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the New York mission. Upon returning home, he met the love of his life and was soon married for time and eternity to Tonya Denise Goodey.

Brett and Tonya would go on to have many adventures together. Their greatest joy was in the eight children that would come into their home. Besides the eight of their own, there were many times when they took in someone in need of a home. One could often find an additional "family member" finding refuge with the Simms Family.

Brett was a master of many trades. He was an author, teacher, orator, craftsman, artist, and dreamer. He and Tonya made a talented pair and life was colorful for them. They loved holidays and knew how to throw a party!

One of Brett's favorite activities was camping. Whether alone or with his family, it was his solace. He had a connection with nature and was happiest when out in it. His favorite camping spot was….. Well, maybe that should not be shared. You know, the secret campspot.

Anything rustic or western spoke to Brett. He loved horses, barns, and cabins. He loved building things for his grandkids.

Brett lived large. He laughed large. He dreamed large. He loved large. Until we meet again…

Brett is survived by his wife, Tonya; children, Michael Simms, Benjamin Simms, Crystal Simms, Jessica Contor, Rourk Contor, Kate Simms, Alyssa Lyne, Emily Gibson, Jared Gibson, Aaron Simms, Jill Simms, Joseph Simms, and William Simms. His adored grandkids are Thomas, Eleanor, Jonathon, Samuel, Tess, Asa, Adam, Jack, Boźena, Lincoln, Phineas, Michael, Greta, and Silas.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 18, 2026, at the Osgood Ward Building, 7940 N. 35th W. The family will visit with friends Thursday, from 6:30-8 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home, 273 N. Ridge Avenue and Friday, from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church.

The family wishes to thank the many friends, neighbors, and extended family for their expressions of love and selfless service.

In lieu of flowers, donations for final expenses would be helpful. Venmo: @cindy-jarvis-8

Services may be viewed live here.