Joshua David Simmons

November 16, 2005 – June 10, 2026

Joshua David Simmons was born on November 16, 2005, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He passed away in Mesa, Arizona, on June 10, 2026. Josh was loved and will be missed by his friends and family as well as the teachers, coaches, guides, and coworkers who shared in his life and helped him along his journey.

Joshua was a varsity cross country and track athlete in high school, and after graduation, attended Mesa Community College, where he received recognition with honors. He had planned to transfer to Arizona State University to continue his studies.

Joshua was also a talented gamer, known online as “XxVENOMxX” and “APEX337,” and belonged to Arizona’s competitive Splatoon team, Sunset Surge. His favorite activity was participating in events and tournaments with his friends. Joshua was a member of Sun Valley Community Church in Queen Creek, Arizona, and worked at Fry’s Marketplace in Mesa. Joshua was also an avid Green Bay Packers fan and a walking encyclopedia of Packers statistics.

Joshua was an autistic person who loved to make people laugh with his quick wit and unique observations of the world. He loved adventures with his sisters, conversations with his grandparents, Thomas and Phyllis Borjon, and he cared deeply for those who were hurting and in need. There was no limit to his compassion for others.

Joshua had an amazing imagination and artistic abilities, which were reflected in his drawings and digital design. He particularly loved photographing Arizona sunsets and mountains. His artwork was frequently displayed in local art shows and galleries.

As a devoted Christian, he spoke openly about his faith. His walk in Christ was true in everything he did. Joshua lived in the moment, laughed with abandon, and made our hearts ache for the struggles of his journey.

Joshua’s Celebration of Life will be held at Sun Valley Community Church in Queen Creek, AZ on July 18, 2026, at 9:00am. All are welcome to attend and encouraged to dress in “Josh Casual” – bright blues, purple, red, orange, and anything neon. Also encouraged are Splatoon and Green Bay Packers–themed clothing. A reception will follow the service.

Joshua is survived by his mother, Ellen, and stepfather, Matt Ruck; his father, David Simmons, and his “Mum,” Sara Simmons; his sisters, Madelynne “Maddie,” Calia, Taylor, Kelly, and Amber; and his grandparents, Phyllis and Thomas Borjon and Dennis and Doris Ruck; Mark and Tracey Irwin, Annette and David Asbury, and Patricia McClellan.