Lee Simmons, Detroit Sound Conservancy Board Member and nephew of Mary and Clarence Eddins who once owned the Blue Bird Inn, has died from COVID-19.
It is with deep sadness to share that an at-large member of our Board of Directors, Lee “Junebug” Simmons, has died of COVID-19 on July 15, 2020. The announcement was made by his sister Karen Simmons on Facebook. [Link here.]
Lee was a musical veteran of both the Blue Bird Inn and Club Heaven legacies and one of the sweetest humans we have ever met. His Aunt and Uncle, Mary and Clarence Eddins, were the “golden era” owners of The Blue Bird Inn. He grew up at the Blue Bird and worked behind the bar for many years until its close. Lee joined our Board of Directors in 2019 as part of our efforts to preserve the building and celebrate his family’s legacy.
Simmons felt a profound love of music, forged in his youth in Detroit, ranging from jazz to blues to rhythm & blues to house to gospel.
Simmons sat for an oral history on the Blue Bird Inn Stage in 2018. In that interview, he remarked:
“I’m totally amazed at this Stage. Some sweet, sweet music was made on this Stage. I heard some music that would make you cry just listening to it. It was so crisp and sweet. I’m thankful that it has survived and been resurrected through Detroit Sound Conservancy. I’m grateful for them to carry my relatives legacy further. I’m so grateful for that.”
This is a tragic loss for our organization. Lee loved being involved. He was committed to our work. He provided first-hand experience and perspective on our Blue Bird efforts. Though we will continue the work he cared so deeply about we know that his unique presence, joy, and humanity cannot be replaced.
This is a tragic loss for our organization. Lee loved being involved. He was committed to our work. He provided first-hand experience and perspective on our Blue Bird efforts. Though we will continue the work he cared so deeply about we know that his unique presence, joy, and humanity cannot be replaced.
When we have more information on services, we will pass them along.