The North Carolina Zoo shared the sad news Monday that Pat Simmons, the zoo's director and CEO since 2015, has died after a fight with cancer.
Simmons died Monday after battling cancer for nearly five years, according to the Asheboro zoo.
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The NC Zoo posted to Facebook:
"To know Pat was to love her. She was a force to be reckoned with and made huge impacts during her time at the Zoo. She was immensely funny, smart, and passionate. Pat loved animals and people with her whole heart. She was a sought-after mentor and counselor, helping many find their true passion. Her legacy in the zoo community will carry on through those she touched throughout her lifetime."
According to the zoo, Pat was a respected zoo director for 41 years within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. She was director of the Akron Zoo for nearly 30 years before moving to North Carolina.
"Pat was and remains an icon in the industry," the NC Zoo posted.
Memorial and funeral arrangements are pending.