Terry Simmons
Charities across the country can thank Lake Highlands resident Terry Simmons, who died on April 3 at the age of 62. Were it not for his tireless advocacy to protect nonprofit gifts, America would not have the Charitable Giving Protection Act of 1995, the Philanthropy Protection Act of 1995 or the Charitable Donations Antitrust Act of 1997.
Those three bills, which Simmons championed as an attorney, ensure that more donor dollars end up in nonprofit coffers. From his 20s, he was interested in helping charities, with an almost savant-like gift for gift and estate planning. After achieving his undergrad and law degree from Baylor, Simmons sought a Master of Law from SMU. In 1994 he founded Charitable Accord, a nonprofit that advocates for the rights of nonprofits, where he served as lead lobbyist.
Some of his accolades include being named “Nonprofit Executive of the Year” by Nonprofit Times in 1997, making the list of “Top 100 Attorneys in America” by Worth Magazine and being a regular on the “Top Attorneys of Texas” by Super Lawyers. But he’ll add one more distinction, posthumous, when his memory is honored with the Special Recognition Award by the Greater Dallas Chapter of Association of Fundraising Professionals. The luncheon event takes place on Friday, Nov. 10, at the Hyatt Regency Dallas and tickets are $85. The 32nd annual National Philanthropy Day Luncheon brings together area nonprofits, volunteers, funders, foundations, business and community members to honor many of this city’s finest who give selflessly in support of numerous worthy causes.
Upon his passing, Simmons left behind his wife of 41 years, Karen, along with sons, Jordan and Adam, and daughter, Shannon.
