One of north Alabama's most well-known businessmen has died due to complications from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Don Simons.

Don Simons, owner of Simons Jewelers on 2315 Jordan Lane S.W. in Huntsville, passed away at 8:30 a.m. today at Huntsville Hospital with his wife, Elizabeth Ann Simons, by his side, according to store manager David Hice. He was 57.

Simons was a 42-year smoker. His story was profiled last fall by AL.com news partner WHNT 19, which you can read here.

"He had been sick for the past year or so," Hice said. "As far as his business is concerned, it's going to remain open, just business as usual. We got instructions not to close."

Hice said the New York native and veteran, who was preceded in death by his parents, had five stepchildren and many grandchildren. He was heavily involved with local charities.

[Related: Funeral arrangements announced for well-known Huntsville business owner Don Simons]