William Walter Sims, Jr. “Bill”, a native of Birmingham, Alabama and a resident of Fairhope, Alabama, passed away on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the age of 81.
Bill was born on December 27, 1943, in Birmingham, Alabama and spent his early childhood in Chattanooga where his father worked as a railroad conductor. His work ethic was unparalleled from a very early age – a trait his son Chris carries in his honor. In Roebuck Plaza, when he was 12, Bill worked as a gas station service attendant. His leadership and mathematical skills were recognized even then as he was tasked with counting and carrying all the monies for the day. Bill graduated from Trussville High School in 1961 at 17. Given his young age, his parents were required to sign for him to enlist in the United States Air Force. His intellectual gifts were again recognized as he scored 100% on his entrance exam. He served for the next four years during the Vietnam era. Bill shared many fond memories of that time when he was stationed in Salina, Kansas and funny tales of his after-hours job driving the Tasty Freeze ice cream truck. Bill briefly worked at Hayes Aircraft Corporation as an airplane technician and then began a long and beloved career at Xerox where he worked his way up to District Business manager – a position he cherished (his bar chart era). After 42 years he retired and was able to enjoy more time with his family, who he loved above all else.
Bill was a motorcycle enthusiast. He always had a love of racing – winning his share of Enduro trophies. Later he enjoyed riding long country roads and cross-country travel on his Honda Goldwing. Now his great granddaughter, Addi, is proudly carrying on the motocross racing tradition at the tender age of seven.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents, William W. Sims Sr. and Edna Miller Sims; his sons, Steven Darryl Sims and Jody Douglas Sims; and his sister, Deanna Sims.
He is survived by his sweetheart of 48 years, Sherry Sims; his beloved children, Christopher Wade Sims (Sue) of Hayden, Alabama and Kaci Sims Johnson (Michael) of Fairhope, Alabama; four grandchildren, David Blake Sims (Tori), Justin Ryan Sims, Jodie Marie Wilson (Justin) and Stone Sims; three great grandchildren, Michael Tyler Sims, Addison Grace Sims, and Riley Jo Wilson; his younger brother, John Dean Sims (Ria), who he fondly referred to as “Little Brother”; and lifelong friends and chosen family, Jim and Minnie Randle.
A memorial service will be held at St. James Episcopal Church, 860 North Section Street Fairhope, Alabama, on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 11AM. Interment will take place at St. James Episcopal Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Tails from Alabama, 6534 Ivy Walk, Bessemer, AL 35022, Salvation Army and/or St. James Episcopal Church of Fairhope, Alabama.
Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family.
I spent many summer vacations with the Sims family and Uncle Bill was always so patient, kind, and funny. Rest in peace and our prayers are for grace and love for Sherry, Kaci, and all the family.
We have such wonderful memories with Bill. Sherry and Kaci. We met Bill and Sherry through Jim and Minnie Andthat was the start of o wonderful friendship.. We enjoyed weekends at the lake, good food and a lot of laughs and memories. Sherry and Kaci you will be in my prayers Bill was such a good man to everyone. He will be missed greatly.
Love you both and Jim and Minnie too
I will always remember Bill for his warm smile that made you feel like family. Summers visiting Alabama were brighter with his kindness, humor, and easy way of making everyone feel at home. I’m holding Sherry, Kaci, and all who loved him in my heart and prayers.
I could not have asked for a better brother-in-law.
I remember Bill’s contagious smile, his quick wit and easy laughter.
My family always enjoyed visiting with the Sims during our Alabama summer vacations. Bill’s love for his family was obvious!
I continue to keep Bill’s family and friends in prayer during this season of their life.
Sheri, so great to see you Al, although I’m sad to read about Bill, I would love to see you and Kaci. Jenn would love to see you too.