Florida Man, 80, Allegedly Kills Wife Over Cruise Argument

Authorities say the elderly man confessed to shooting his wife, who had dementia, during a heated dispute.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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An 80-year-old Florida man named William Elwood Simmons allegedly shot and killed his 83-year-old wife, Nancy, at their Orlando home on Saturday. According to an affidavit, Simmons called the police to confess, saying he "would rather live in prison than to deal with her" worsening dementia. The couple had been arguing over going on a cruise when the incident occurred.

Why it matters

This tragic case highlights the immense challenges and emotional toll that caring for a spouse with dementia can take, sometimes leading to unthinkable acts of violence. It also raises questions about support systems for elderly caregivers and whether more could be done to prevent such outcomes.

The details

The affidavit states that during the argument, Nancy Simmons told her husband "f--k you, you b--tard" multiple times, which "triggered" William Simmons. He then went to his bedroom, got a shotgun, and returned to the kitchen where he shot Nancy once, killing her. Simmons told police he had "dealt with her dementia for too long" and that he "loved the old Nancy" but would "rather live in prison than to deal with her".

  • On Saturday, February 25, 2026 at 5:15 p.m., William Simmons called the Orange County Sheriff's Office to confess to murdering his wife.
  • Nancy Simmons was pronounced dead at 6:00 p.m. on February 25, 2026.

The players

William Elwood Simmons

An 80-year-old Florida man who allegedly shot and killed his 83-year-old wife, Nancy, during an argument over going on a cruise.

Nancy Simmons

The 83-year-old wife of William Simmons, who was allegedly killed by her husband after an argument about going on a cruise. She was suffering from dementia.

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What they’re saying

“Simmons stated he had dealt with her dementia for too long and stated that he loved the old Nancy, and that he would rather live in prison than to deal with her.”

— William Elwood Simmons (Affidavit)

What’s next

Simmons was appointed a public defender and the case is ongoing. The judge will determine whether he will be granted bail or remain in custody.

The takeaway

This heartbreaking case underscores the immense strain and emotional toll that caring for a spouse with dementia can have, sometimes leading to tragic outcomes. It highlights the need for greater support systems and resources for elderly caregivers to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.