Obituary: Howard David Simmons

Howard David Simmons, beloved father, partner, and friend, passed away on Dec. 14, 2025, after a sudden illness. He was predeceased by his wife, Harel Doris Weiner, of Memphis, Tenn., and is survived by his daughter, Elisa Simmons, son, Ryan Simmons, granddaughter, Hayven, partner-in-life, Marci Draluck, and countless friends and family who will miss him dearly.

Born in Atlanta, Ga., in 1940, he was the only child of Sanders and Eula Morris Simmons, of blessed memory. During his teenage years, the family moved to Athens, Ga., where he attended Athens High and became a lifelong Bulldogs fan. Despite the move, he remained connected to his Atlanta roots, commuting to prepare for his bar mitzvah at Congregation Shearith Israel and participate in AZA activities. He graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was a proud member of ZBT fraternity, and University of Georgia School of Law.

Howard and Harel married in 1967 in Memphis and reared Ryan and Elisa in Sandy Springs. The family enjoyed travel, time with relatives, and summers at the Progressive Club pool. Howard was a favorite kibbitzer at Ahavath Achim Synagogue, where he ushered for the High Holy days. The couple’s gourmet dinner club created cherished memories that live on today. After Harel’s untimely passing in 1980, Howard was resilient as a loving dad to Elisa and Ryan in a time that witnessed few single fathers.

A dedicated attorney, Howard practiced law in downtown Atlanta for decades. His expertise spanned workers’ compensation to medical malpractice and everything in between. Proudly independent, he joked about being a “dinosaur” in an era of specialization but took pride in the attorneys he trained that did go on to become renowned experts. He never truly retired, in recent years contributing to fee arbitration for the Atlanta Bar and finding joy working with the Fulton County Board of Equalization, where his humor and generosity — often accompanied by donuts — brightened the days of colleagues.

Eighteen years ago, Howard met Marci Draluck. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with travel, wine, and friendship. Their adventures took them to Machu Picchu, Vietnam, Italy, and beyond, each trip meticulously planned by Howard, including stops to meet friends of friends who were acclaimed chefs or vintners. But their greatest joy was gathering their families to enjoy Shabbat and holiday dinners together.

Howard loved life above all. He had a big heart and an extraordinary passion for good wine and great friends. Music and theater were constant companions. He brought a group to every restaurant worth eating at. His dinner table was a fixture at Chastain Park concerts. He stayed loyal to his wine groups, foodies, poker buddies, relatives, and everyone else in the warm circles he cultivated. His generosity and laughter touched everyone he met, pouring and sharing tastings with love that will endure.

Donations may be made to American Birthright Israel, Colorectal Cancer Society, or the charity of your choice. Funeral details at Dressler’s.