Rupert Simmons Obituary, Death – As a County Councillor for the Heathfield & Waldron ward on East Sussex County Council, which also included Mayfield & Five Ashes, and as a Lead Member for the Economy on East Sussex County Council, Rupert worked tirelessly for the community.
He was a member of the Regeneration Committee for Uckfield Town as well as the Gatwick Airport Consultative Committee and served on a number of other Boards and Representative Groups, including those that represented South East Employers. Rupert, on the other hand, displayed his persistent enthusiasm and dedication for Heathfield and Waldron.
Rupert Simmons served as the chair of both the Heathfield Partnership Trust and its sister charity, Wealden Works, for a considerable amount of time. It is with a heavy heart that the directors of the Heathfield Partnership Trust have to announce his passing.
In addition to serving as a Governor at Heathfield Community College for a considerable amount of time, he put in countless hours of labor behind the scenes to ensure the continuity of the Youth Center. He recognized the difficulty that young people face while transitioning from education to the workforce and helped develop Heathfield Works, which is now known as Wealden Works.
This organization’s mission is to offer young people the assistance they need to obtain employment and professions with a variety of local businesses. The success of this endeavor made it possible to expand into neighboring Wealden towns, which assisted an even greater number of young people in realizing their full potential.
As Chair of the Partnership, he oversaw the work that was done to revitalize the High Street. He also led a vigorous campaign to keep parking free across Wealden, which he believed was critical to maintaining the health and vitality of our High Street. His role in bringing together businesses, nonprofits, and the public sector in a coordinated and consistent network has been crucial in enhancing services for inhabitants of all ages, from infants to senior citizens.