Film screening to highlight life of Emanuel AME shooting victim Daniel Simmons
6/26/2025, 6 p.m.

A documentary about Rev. Daniel Simmons Sr., one of nine people killed in the 2015 shooting at Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, S.C., will be screened on July 1.

“One Last Breath: The Daniel Simmons Story” explores Simmons’ life, from his rural upbringing to his decades of service as a pastor, assistant pastor and interim elder at Mother Emanuel. The film uses archival footage, survivor interviews and family reflections to revisit the tragedy and show how Simmons’ faith and compassion shaped countless lives.
The shooting shocked the nation when a 21-year-old white supremacist opened fire during a Bible study, killing Simmons and eight other worshippers. The film examines not only the horror of that day but also the strength, forgiveness and healing that followed, focusing on his daughter, Rose Simmons, who has become a national advocate for faith-based healing and gun violence prevention.
Following the screening, a panel discussion will feature Rose Simmons, along with Richmond City Councilwoman Stephanie Lynch and other community leaders. Clovia Lawrence of Coming Together Virginia will moderate the conversation.
The event begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. Tickets are $20. Proceeds will benefit Coming Together Virginia’s Good Faith In Action series. For more information, visit comingtogetherva.org or call 804-442-3635.