Obituary of S. Brian Simons

S. Brian Simons
February 24, 1937 – October 31, 2024

S. Brian Simons, 87, of Trumbull, Connecticut, and the founder of OEM Controls, Inc., passed away peacefully on October 31, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family.

Brian was married to his beloved wife, Beth Nundy Simons, for nearly 50 years until she passed in 2015. Together, they built a life centered on love, faith, and family. He is survived by their four children: Sam Simons of Easton, CT; Keith Simons of Monroe, CT, and his wife, Amy; Mary Simons of Lincoln, VT, and her partner Mike Horner; and Molly Simons-Smith of Monroe, CT, and her husband, Reed Smith. He is also survived by his sister, Phoebe, and her husband, Jim Tucker.

Preceding him in death were his brother, Barry, and his wife, Carolyn Simons; his sister, Barbara, and her husband, David Frost; as well as his late daughter-in-law, Deb Simons, Sam’s wife, who passed away in 2014.

A devoted grandfather, he leaves behind nine grandchildren: Bryson and Avlynn (children of Molly and Reed); Greyson, Keegan, and Georgia (children of Keith and Amy); and Alden, Caden, Noah, and Eve (children of Sam and Deb). His grandchildren brought him immense pride and joy, and he took great pleasure in supporting and guiding them.

Born on February 24, 1937, in Camden, New Jersey, Brian grew up in Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania, where he developed a love for sports, community, and entrepreneurship. Raised with strong family values by his parents, (Grampy Bud) and Jacquine (Grammy Jac) Simons, he excelled in wrestling, football, and baseball throughout high school.

When he attended the University of Connecticut, he not only pursued academics but also launched the wrestling program there, serving as team captain for four years. Throughout his life, Brian was also an avid golfer, cherishing time on the greens and building lifelong friendships at The Connecticut Golf Club and Sailfish Point Golf Club.

After graduating UConn in 1960, he served in the U.S. Army and Army Reserves until August 1966, demonstrating his deep sense of duty and pride in serving his country.

In 1966, he founded OEM Controls, Inc., a company that grew from a small operation into a thriving industry leader with over 200 employees. Brian built a successful company and left a profound influence on his industry. Known for his innovative solutions, he left an indelible mark through both his products and his mentorship of others. His achievements were recognized when he was inducted into the UConn School of Business Hall of Fame in 2013.

His faith was a guiding force in his life, and he was deeply involved with the Church of the New Jerusalem, helping to promote and establish the Connecticut chapter. Brian and Beth opened their home to church functions and camps for children, offering a welcoming space for fellowship and spiritual growth. His dedication to his faith and family was a testament to his character and his values.

With his entrepreneurial spirit, Brian pursued various interests outside of his career. He established a catfish farm, raised cattle, invested in real estate, and even built homes. His life was filled with hands-on projects that reflected his creativity and leadership.

Brian’s impact extended beyond his family and career into his beloved community. He was actively involved with the Citizens to Preserve Trumbull (CPT), an organization committed to maintaining the town’s character and quality of life as well as served on the Trumbull Planning and Zoning Commission.

He supported his children’s sports through football, wrestling and baseball fundraising and coaching.  He donated mats to the Trumbull High Wrestling team.  His community remembers him as a leader, a friend, and a mentor who cared deeply about the future of his town.

A celebration of Brian’s life will be held at Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Rd. Trumbull, CT 06611 on Friday November 15, 2024 from 4 to 7 PM, where family and friends will gather to honor the remarkable man he was.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to AFA and UConn in his memory, allowing his generosity and kindness to continue touching lives:

- Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) https://alzfdn.org/donate/  Check “Make this a Tribute Gift:”[In Memory of Brian Simons]

- UConn School of Business Dean’s Fund https://www.foundation.uconn.edu/fund/school-of-business-deans-fund/ “Give Now” - Give in Memory of:  “Brian Simons”

Brian Simons’ life was a testament to the power of vision, faith, and dedication. His family is profoundly grateful for the time they shared with him and the legacy of love, kindness, and resilience he leaves behind. Brian’s presence will be deeply missed but forever cherished and remembered.