Bruce Simon, 69, a beloved and steadfast member of the Henderson, Kentucky community, passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. News of his untimely passing traveled quickly, touching the hearts of dear friends and loved ones both near and far.

Bruce was born on May 4, 1957, at St. Mary's Hospital in Evansville, Indiana. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lois Simon.

He attended Evansville Day School from sixth grade through graduation in 1975. In May 2025, Bruce attended his 50th class reunion, where he was honored with the school's Founders Achievement Award, a distinguished recognition presented to alumni whose professional accomplishments and service have left a meaningful impact on their communities. Bruce embodied both through his stewardship of his family's 107-year-old business and the kindness, integrity, generosity, wit, and hospitality for which he was so widely known.

Bruce graduated from the University of Denver with a bachelor's degree in business in 1979. He then returned home to Henderson to work alongside his father, Larry Simon, at Simon's Shoes, the historic family business founded by his grandfather, Jacob "Jake" Simon, in 1919. As the third-generation owner, Bruce became the heart of the store for nearly five decades. Customers came not only for shoes, but for conversation, laughter, and the warmth of Bruce's welcoming smile. His impeccable service and genuine hospitality reflected a grace and personal touch from another era. He especially loved welcoming tourist steamboats to his hometown and to the family store he cherished so deeply. Simon's Shoes drew customers from across the nation, many of whom returned as much for the wonderful conversation and Bruce's jovial spirit as for the shoes themselves. Always ready to serve, Bruce made everyone who walked through the door feel like family.

Of all the qualities Bruce possessed, perhaps the most admirable were his steadfast loyalty and unwavering devotion. His love for his father knew no bounds. He found deep fulfillment in caring for homeless animals and helping those in need of rescue. And the enduring love and devotion he shared with Stacey, his dearest love, were evident to all who knew them.

Bruce will be remembered always for his effervescent smile and the joy he brought to others. As one classmate recently shared, "…that most beautiful smile rings through my memories even now. I will never forget it."

Bruce is survived by his beloved companion of 24 years, Stacey Moore, of Evansville, Indiana; his father, Larry Simon, of Henderson, Kentucky; one daughter, Sydney Simon, (Cody Nelson) of Evansville, Indiana; three siblings, Ellen Farmer (John) of Henderson, Kentucky; Dr. Paul Simon of Louisville, Kentucky; Suzy Fink (Joel) of Glenview, Illinois; five nieces and nephews, Lindsey, Charlie, and Jason Fink; Jacob and Natalie Farmer and two grandchildren, Genevieve and Mateo.

The Simon family kindly requests donations be made to the following organizations:

New Hope Animal Rescue

526 Atkinson Street

Henderson, KY 42420

Delta Rescue

P.O. Box 9

Glendale, CA 91209

Deltarescue.org

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

5001 Angel Canyon Road

Kanab, UT 84741

bestfriends.org

National Jewish Hospital

1400 Jackson Street

Denver, CO 80206

nationaljewish.org

Audubon Kids Zone

1325 Powell Street

Henderson, KY 42420

Brain Injury Adventure Camp (BIAC)

P.O. Box 236

Robards, Kentucky 42452

Rudy-Rowland Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.rudyrowland.com.