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1199 Utoy Springs Rd, SW 

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Barney SIMMS Obituary

SIMMS, Barney L. Barney L. Simms, a longtime City of Atlanta Housing Authority employee, a civic leader, and a man of compassion who possessed an unwavering faith in God and a deep abiding love for his family, his Church and his community, passed away tragically on Sat. April 9, 2016 in Atlanta , GA. . A Celebration of the life of Barney L. Simms will be held tomorrow Sat. , April 16 ,2016 at 12 Noon at Antioch Baptist Church North, 540 Cameron Alexander Blvd. ,NW. (Formerly Kennedy Street ); Atlanta ,GA. (30318) , Rev. Dr. Carmon Alexander , Sr. pastor officiating.. His body will lie instate for public viewing from 10:00 am till the hour of Service. No viewing or wake will take place at Murray Brothers Funeral Home. Interment: Westview Cemetery. Survivors includes his children Justin T. Simms ,daughter Natalie Q. Jones numerous other relatives , special friends and associates throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area and the U.S.A. Murray Brothers Funeral Home , Cascade Chapel , 1199 Utoy Springs Rd.; SW ;Atlanta, GA (30331), (404)349 -3000. mbfh.com.

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Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Apr. 15, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Barney SIMMS

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Vivian Miller

November 19, 2017

I know it is too late. Barney "bobo" as I knew him, was my friend from Davenport. We grew up together and I will forever remember him as my best friend. I just found out that he is dead. Please pass my sentiment to his family.

Rosemarie

February 24, 2017

Gone but not forgotten...God Bless.

Gail James

October 15, 2016

I just learned about the passing of Barney. We were once members of Antioch Baptist Church North and we worked at Perimeter College. Barney was a very kind and true friend to all he met. As Barney pursued the public sector, he made commitments and successes for the betterment of communities. Rest in peace Barney. You will be lovingly remembered. Condolences to Justin, Natalie, and the grandchildren.

Adelaide Solomon-Jordan

August 13, 2016

I have just heard of this deeply sad loss for so many. I knew Barney for over 35 years and there are few people that care so much about others and the quality of their lives. I always admired the gentle, insightful, loving way he approached all endeavors.

My deepest condolences to his family. He will be lovingly remembered.

Rosemarie Nelson, Fmr. City Cou.

July 25, 2016

Lighting a candle in remembrance.

E W

May 2, 2016

God Bless Barney Simms, a wonderful man who helped many. He got things done!
E W

Betty Wilson

April 26, 2016

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Psalms 46:1 M

April 24, 2016

May 'the God of all comfort' bring your family peace at this time of untimely loss.

Sarah Savannah

April 24, 2016

Dear family and friends, Atlanta has lost a true patriarch. Mr. Simms devoted his whole life in service of the people. "For God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name by ministering and continuing to minister to the holy ones." Hebrews 6:10

Willie

April 23, 2016

I am truly sorry to read about the untimely death of Mr. Simms. The answers to why such things happen can only be found in God's Word the Bible. (Ecclesiates 9:11)

VR

April 22, 2016

Offering my deepest condolences to all the family, may God spirit be with you at this time of sorrow .

John 5:28

April 21, 2016

There are no words that can express how sorry I am to hear of the loss of Barney. My deepest sympathy to the family. During this heartbreak period, may the God of all comfort be with you and grant you peace during this difficult time. May all the prayers offered on your behalf be of some comfort at this time.

Brenda Adams

April 18, 2016

Sending my sincerest condolences to the family of Mr. Barney Simms. May he rest in peace as he continues his work in heaven. Just know that God called on of his angels home while he left a legacy for you to cherish. I pray that he gives you the strength to endure.

C L

April 18, 2016

Please accept my condolences on your loss. May your memories comfort your heart; and God help your family during this time of sorrow. Isa.41:13

Sanders Family

April 18, 2016

Rest in peace.

April 18, 2016

Rest in peace Barney.
Mary Taylor

Saundra Bethea-Pegues

April 17, 2016

My sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of the late Mr. Barney Simms. May God comfort your hearts and give you peace at this most difficult and may he RIP. Weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning.
The Bethea and Salaam Family

Mildred Imogene Hodge Wright

April 16, 2016

To the family of Mr. Barney Simms,

Please accept my deep sorrow and sympathy regarding the passing of Barney. We were in college together at Savannah State and he was always regarded as Mr. Cool. He was a cool, calm, clean young man. I am so sorry for the tragic situation that took his life.
I also saw him a few years ago when my chorus sang for one of his work functions during the Christmas Holiday Season. The staff referred to him as a "smooth operator". We all felt the same way, he did have a reserve way of shaking and moving.
I know your pain and anghuish, however, God can heal your broken hearts and give you peace during this turbulent time. Put your trust in God and through Jesus, He will see you through.
Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers and remember the wonderful times that you spent together with Mr. Simms.
Sincerely yours,
Mrs. Mildred Imogene Hodge Wright
[email protected]

Lisa Morchower

April 16, 2016

Barney Simms was one of the most selfless, giving and loyal men I knew. He was the Chairman of Atlanta's License Review Board for many years while I was an attorney for the City of Atlanta and even after I left for private practice. He was the epitome of a gentleman, and of course, he always looked impeccable! He always treated people fairly, and he knew how to balance the interests of the City with the rights of the applicants who appeared before him. I spent many hours in front of Barney presenting cases, (the revocation of the alcohol license at the Gold Club, among many). Sometimes our cases went until the wee hours of the night on multiple nights during a week, and Barney never complained because he wanted to give both sides enough time to present their respective cases. He impacted my career in many ways, and I will cherish my relationship with him. The service for him today was simply beautiful, and I believe he would have been overwhelmed by it. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends who will miss him terribly. May his memory be for a blessing.

April 16, 2016

Sorry for the loss of your dear love one. Please take comfort in the fact that God will make you firm and He will make you strong. He will firmly ground you at this time of sorrow 1 Peter 5:10

April 16, 2016

I send my deepest condolences to the family, especially Natalie. My you and the family be comforted during this time. My God continue to bless and comfort you all.

Poppa Eason

Essinita Mathew Harris

April 16, 2016

I want to begin by thanking Mr. Simms again for his integrity and commitment to ALL he knew or came in contact with.
Mr Simms was and still is inspirational during life's challenges. I say still "is" because he believed in me when I did not believe in myself. As a result of his caring, my family and I have accomplished many of the personal and professional goals we have set for ourselves. Mr. Simms allowed God to use him in my life and the lives of many other Atlanta Housing Authority participants. I am now and have been a homeowner for 10 years. Thank you Mr. Simms, you have been our angel on earth and we will never forget you commitment to community.

Lewis Daniel - White

April 16, 2016

I send my condolences to the family of Barney Simms, may the Lord God comfort and keep you during this time of bereavement. I met Barney Simms when I moved to Atlanta, GA. in 1973 and he has always been a kind and helpful person...may he rest in peace, he will be surely missed by the Atlanta community.......

Denise Samuel

April 16, 2016

Deepest sympathies to the family. Sundays at Antioch just won't be the same. Rest in peace Mr. Simms.

Lewis White

April 16, 2016

I've known Barney Simms since moving to Atlanta, GA in 1973, a good person....

Robet Avery

April 16, 2016

Deepest sympathy .Sorry we do not understand. Why???

DrGeorgianne Thomas

April 16, 2016

I will always remember the meeting we had together as NPU CHAIRS R S AND T The awesome three R.I.P.

Robert Avery

April 16, 2016

Our prayers to the family. Kendrick Long Andrew William Bill.

Blooms, because your yard bloomed all four seasons...

Yvonne Davis

April 15, 2016

Never Pretentious,
Never Elitist,
Never Boastful...
just Barney Simms.

As I walk my dogs pass your home I realize that we will no longer engage in conversation while our dogs play.
Barney truly made a mark on our Bonny-Brook neighborhood and the city of Atlanta at-large.
Peace be with the Simms' Family, Friends.
R.I.P. Barney - Your Legacy is profound.

Virginia Jordan

April 15, 2016

Rest In Peace.

Marjorie Cowan

April 15, 2016

My deepest condolences to the family of Barney Simms, who was a kind, distinguished gentleman and leader at Georgia Perimeter College, where I was a co-worker. My prayers are with you during this difficult time. Barney will truly be missed by many in the community.

Alexandris Townsend

April 15, 2016

Our deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. BARNEY SIMMS. May the God of COMFORT abiding presence and love sustain and strengthen each of you during this difficult loss!. Amen.

Hattie B. Dorsey

April 15, 2016

Your friends will truly miss you!! Joyce and I remember the last time we were in your presence - the laughter, kidding, and storytelling. May God embrace you in his heavenly arms - Rest in Peace!

Frances Nelson

April 15, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Wright Banks

April 15, 2016

I was very sorry to hear about Mr. Simms. We dealt with one another numerous times over the years. We did not always see things in the same way, but we had some great discussions about our respective points of view. I always enjoyed the occasions when he sought my input and thoroughly appreciated his input when I sought it. He was a terrific advocate and ambassador for the City of Atlanta who will certainly be missed.

M. D. Shelton

April 15, 2016

I was blessed to attend one of Barney's infamous Christmas parties, complete with his impeccable southern hospitality, dapper attire, broad smile, gourmet cuisine, awesome holiday decor and interior design. He will be missed.

Ruben Burney

April 15, 2016

preston weaver

April 15, 2016

Deepest condolences to the Simms family

Latoya Spikes

April 15, 2016

Barney will truely be missed. My deepest sympathy and regards for the Sims family. Barney inspired me to believe in the vision of the Atlanta Housing Authority. His energy and integrity will be missed.

Mrs Willie Chestnut

April 15, 2016

Sincere prayers & condolences.

April 15, 2016

REST IN PEACE !!BW.JACKSON

Phyllis Magby

April 15, 2016

Our condolences to your Family and Church Family on your Loss. May God keep you in these times. God Bless you all.

Betty DEPASS

April 15, 2016

Keith, Natalie and Justin, I am praying for you all in this difficult time. Also that I am always here for you all.
Barney was always such a kind and helpful person. Keith, I can reflect back on your house warming when Barney congratulated me on my engagement and how happy he was for me. Not to mention other happy times like Natalie's graduation party at Barney's home and Natalie's wedding.
Barney was so supportive and kind.
He will be missed.
Barney was more than a friend to me, he was family.
God bless you all!

Wilbert Brown

April 14, 2016

Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones. Barney will forever be my classmate and friend from Oakland High School Class of 1963 in Haines City, Fl.

VJW

April 14, 2016

Sorry for your loss.may you find comfort.ps.147:3

Loretta Green

April 14, 2016

Rest in peace my dear friend. I will miss talking to you about my yard. Natalie and Justin you are in my prayers.

Nickey Boyer

April 14, 2016

I remember meeting Mr. Barney Simms when I was attending the Good-2-Great GED program back in 2008. He brought donuts for the entire class and asked what we were going to do after we received our GEDs, and me and my brother told him we would go into Visual Communication. We even shared some of our art work with him, too. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Simms Family during this difficult time. And may these words of encouragement help heal you one and all. "But I do not want you to be ignorant, breathren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words." Thessalonians 4-13:18. God bless!

Nickey Boyer

April 14, 2016

I remember meeting Mr. Barney Simms when I was attending the Good-2-Great GED program back in 2008. He brought donuts for the entire class and asked what we were going to do after we received our GEDs, and me and my brother told him we would go into Visual Communication. We even shared some of our art work with him, too. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Simms Family during this difficult time. And may these words of encouragement help heal you one and all. "But I do not want you to be ignorant, breathren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with thethe Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words." Thessalonians 4-13:18. God bless!

Kenneth Flanders

April 14, 2016

Barney you are already missed by every soul you've ever touched. I met you in September 1978 at what was then called DeKalb Community College and since that first day you were family. At DeKalb you mentored Monty and myself to become President and Vice President of the first African American Organization at Dekalb Community namely DCAAA. DeKalb Community African American Association. I as well as my family are heart broken over your senseless death and I'm am sure you were as always, trying to lend a hand to someone you felt had some unseen potential. Since meeting your I've been politically active in my community and am known to be the first black to run for the seat of Mayor in Bainbridge (Decatur County)Georgia. I thank you for all that you inspired me to reach for in this life. Your body will return to earth but your spirit will live on with me forever

JAMES JARRELL

April 14, 2016

HEAR, O LORD, AND BE GRACIOUS TO ME!
O LORD BE MY HELPER!
YOU HAVE TURNED MY MOURNING INTO DANCING;
YOU HAVE LOSSED MY SACKCLOTH
AND GIRDED ME WITH GLADNESS,
THAT MY SOUL MAY PRAISE YOU AND NOT BE SILENT.
O LORD, MY GOD, I WILL GIVE THANKS FOREVER.
(PSALM 30)

BARNEY WAS SCHOOLMATE, FRIEND, AND COLLEAGUE.

Mara Burks

April 14, 2016

May God Bless you all in this time of sorrow, my prayers are with you all Simms family and friends

Juanita Goss

April 14, 2016

So sorry to hear of his passing. Such a tragedy for one who served so tirelessly.

ANGELA SWINT

April 14, 2016

To the family,

Thanks for sharing such a selfless individual who knew no boundaries for helping others. He empowered me to effectively operate in the spirit of excellence as a member of the DeKalb College Student Government and in all aspects of my life.

The lord will provide the help and strength that you need.

Kenny Washington Washington

April 14, 2016

My prayers and condolences to the family, friends and the congregation of Antioch Baptist Church North. To be absent from the body means to be present with the LORD. May GOD continue to bless you and heal your hearts during this unfortunate time of bereavement.

Rosie Pettigrew

April 14, 2016

You will always be remembered. Your contributions to the community, hospitality and your genuine friendship.

Atlanta Metro PHA's

April 14, 2016

May your kind and gentle spirit rain sunshine upon Atlanta and throughout all the communities you served. Your kindness shall never be forgotten. Your gift of sharing and caring will always be in our hearts. Never met a stranger that was Barney, Each one reach one Each one teach one, that was Barney. We admired him. Our hearts and prayers to your family in the loss of your loved one.

Kenneth F. Joe Sr.

April 14, 2016

Barney you are unforgettable. You have made a difference. Thank you for caring for others. Thank you for speaking loudly when those in power wish you would whisper. May your soul be welcomed into the kingdom of heaven and you take your place amongst the angels who have gone before you.

C Richardson

April 14, 2016

My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends. In your sorrow, may there be peace....In your thoughts, may there be love....In your hearts, may there be healing. Psalm 147:3 promises: "He heals the broken-hearted; He binds up their wounds." May God bless you with peace, comfort, and strength,to endure the days ahead (Psalm 46.1)

Dorothy Monagan

April 14, 2016

Thoughts and prayers go out to the Simms Family. Dorothy B. Monagan

Jill Campbell

April 14, 2016

You will be missed so greatly.
Thank you for your leading role as an SGA leader at Georgia Perimeter College back in the 80's.
I've moved on to higher heights in my life, finishing medical school and I THANK you for being a large part of my excelling in life....
You will always be my leader, idol, mentor, friend and like a father during my Perimeter College years up until this very day.
I received an honor from you for most Outstanding and dedicated worker on SGA, when the whole you deserved that award.

Daphne Burks Grier

April 14, 2016

I'm sincerely hurt, saddened, and disgusted by the senseless death of Barney. Always immaculately dressed, impeccable manners, and a faithfull servant at Antioch Baptist Church North, deepest condolences to your family, Rest in HEAVENLY PEACE, Love Always my dear friend

CAROL ANN

April 13, 2016

REST IN PEACE, MY DEAR COUSIN BOBO, REST IN PEACE.

William Hurst

April 13, 2016

Barney will be missed by more than anyone can ever think. I am a member of the high school where Barney attended, and of all the memories extended, there are none that speak of Barney as an "OAKLANDER"! We all loved him and we all have lost a friend.

STEPHANIE COACHMAN WILLIAMS

April 13, 2016

Your sunny disposition will be forever missed.

April 13, 2016

On behalf of my dad, Ralph Dorsett, one of Bobo's many childhood friends, and family, we simply extend our sincerest condolences to Bobo's family. I still remember my mom telling me, it was Bobo that gave her my name after one of his college friends. If I remember nothing else about him, I remember his style......Rest on thy good and faithful servant.

Ralph Dorsett
Taletha Dorsett-Clincy

Brooke Weinmann

April 13, 2016

Oh, Barney. You will be missed. Bless you and the good work you did on this earth. Deep condolences to your family.

Ronnie Gunnerson

April 13, 2016

I was in Leadership Atlanta with Barney, moved away shortly after that, but will always remember Barney as a sweet, kind, gentle and incredibly caring man. My heart goes out to his family, and may Barney rest in peace forever.
- Ronnie Gunnerson

Mark Willard

April 13, 2016

It has been my privilege to serve under Mr. Simms on the Board of Atlanta Victim Assistance. Heartbroken is truly the only way to describe those of us who knew Barney.

Sir, thank you for your many years of service to the Atlanta community. You will be deeply missed.

Marilyn Howard

April 13, 2016

May you know the peace of God is with you and comforting your hearts.

Sharon Riley

April 13, 2016

My condolences to the family. Barney Sims will live on in our hearts. He was an outstanding individual that I'm honored to have known and work with at Georgia Perimeter College/DeKalb College. He was a wonderful mentor to me when he came to work in my department before he left the college. I spent many a day in his office learning from his wisdom and listening to wonderful stories about his kids. He truly loved his community. I hope I can live up to the example of living life he spoke of and lived everyday. Rest in Peace Barney.

Demetra Newton

April 13, 2016

My condolences to the family.

April 13, 2016

We will surely miss seeing Barney working out in the "Y" on Campbellton Road. So vibrant and so much energy. Rest in Peace Barney.

Dorothy Hill

April 13, 2016

With Deepest Sympathy!
Mr. Simms Letter-Carrier.

Maleia

April 13, 2016

Thank you so much for showing me how a true lady represents herself. Rest in Peace Barney

valerie Pittman

April 13, 2016

To the Simms family:

As the Lord holds you and comfort you, may His presence give you the strength you need during this time of loss. The memories Barney leave with each of us will last long pass this time of grief. There were many celebrations with Barney that I will not forget. With Love and Sympathy I send my deepest condolences.

JoAnn Evans-Taylor

April 13, 2016

The members of NPU-Z would like to extend our sincere sympathy for your lost. He was quite a Servant. Anne Phillips, Chair

Doria Johnhson

April 13, 2016

Well done faithful servant.

Ricky & Angela Moore

April 13, 2016

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Elder Julius Union

April 13, 2016

God bless you and your spirit be at peace.

April 13, 2016

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

April 13, 2016

REST IN PEACE MY
DEAR COUSIN BOBO, REST IN PEACE......

Trish Thomas

April 13, 2016

MY PRAYERS R With The Family!

Trish Thomas

April 13, 2016

GOODBYES....R NOT Forever, NEITHER R THEY The End, THEY Just Mean, REST ON, MR. SIMMS, UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN....

Phyllis West

April 13, 2016

It saddens my heart at the death of My Dear Church Member, but I feel that he is going to a BETTER PLACE. My sincere sympathy to the family, may you cherish your many memories, and Thank GOD for the time that he was loaned.

Barney with members of his staff at an AHA Christmas Party

Corey "CJay" Braxton

April 13, 2016

Gale Hutchinson

April 13, 2016

I met and knew Barney Simms thru my cousin Jerome Eppinger they were very good friends and when my cousin Jerome passed, Barney got up and spoke so eloquently about my cousin.My cousin and Barney started the homeless advocacy in Atlanta they took Atlanta by a storm. And when Barney came to my house in Chicago with my cousin Jerome we had a great time I will always remember how Barney and my daddy were listening to jazz in our basement in Chicago Barney you RIP. You are in heaven now with your best friend Jerome and my mother and your jazz buddy my daddy

Kulechia High

April 12, 2016

Mr. Simms was a kind and nice person. He will be miss Mr. Simms always put a smile on your face when you are down. That's what I am going to miss about Mr. Simms. I meet him at the Atlanta housing authority. I will keep your family in my pray.

Marvin (Tootsie) Brooks

April 12, 2016

I am still in shock, but I know he is resting in the arms of the Lord now and one day we will meet again. He was my childhood friend and lived right across the street from my grandparents home. We were in and out of each other's home in high school and when he came home from college. One of the most caring people I knew and will miss talking to him and seeing him when he visit. Rest in Heaven Barney, gone to soon.

Kulechia High

April 12, 2016

Mr. Simms was a wonderful person he will be miss. I will keep your family in my pray

Riva Holiday

April 12, 2016

My deepest condolences...

Cecilia R McGee

April 12, 2016

~only peace

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Antioch Baptist Church North

GA 30331

Apr

16

Funeral

12:00 p.m.

Antioch Baptist Church North

540 Cameron M. Alexander Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30331

Funeral services provided by:

Murray Brothers Funeral Home, Inc. - Cascade Chapel

1199 Utoy Springs Rd, SW , Atlanta, GA 30331

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