Richard Simmons' brother honors his legacy: 'Celebrate his life'

Richard Simmons' brother Lenny Simmons recently opened up about the fitness guru's death and its impact on people.

During a recent interview with PEOPLE, about Richard, who died at the age of 76 on Saturday, July 13, Lenny revealed his late brother's legacy.

He explained: "I don't want people to be sad about my brother. I want them to remember him for the genuine joy and love he brought to people's lives. He truly cared about people. He called, wrote and emailed thousands of people throughout his career to offer help."

Sending a message to his late brother's fans, Lenny said: "So don't be sad. Celebrate his life"

Speaking of his brother's death, which came off as a shock to his friends and family, he revealed that Richard was looking forward to taking care of some projects ahead of his death.

Lenny told the outlet: "He was very excited about all of his upcoming ventures he was working on. We are in shock. Please respect the family at this difficult time."

For the unversed, Richard's death was confirmed by his longtime publicist Tom Estey on Saturday, July 13.