Deborah Sims

Deborah Sims, 72, a loving, kindhearted Sister, Aunt, Friend, and Mother to us all answered the call into rest on April 12, 2025. Deborah was born on February 5th, 1953, to Nathaniel and Mary (Autman) Sims in Joliet, IL. Deborah graduated from Joliet East High School in 1971. She lived a life full of love and service and worked for Easter Seals.
Deborah loved the Lord and lived her life according to God's word. She was a faithful member of Holy Temple Church of God in Christ for 72 years and did whatever her hands found to do. She served under the leadership of the late Pastor Green, Wheeler, and Jones before the late Pastor Autry Perry, Sr., and 1st Lady Doris Perry. The Perry's were not only her spiritual leaders, but they were also her family. Because of her caring and nurturing spirit, they entrusted her to be the God Sister of their son, Autry Perry, Jr. This bond was strong, and she remained his "Bobo" for life.
Deborah also served at Holy Temple under Pastor Emeritus Moore and the late 1st Lady Shirley Moore for 16 years. She lovingly called them her brother and sister and was known to make 1st Lady blush (insider). Pastor Moore often spoke about her dedication and how she had his back. Deborah's current pastor, Pastor Kevin Dorris was only blessed with her faithful presence for over a year, but it was enough time to know that she was special. As you can see Deborah gave her all to the ministry. She worked in the capacity of bookkeeper, van driver, trustee board member, decorator, choir director and a member of the praise team.
Deborah was a beloved singer and had the voice of an angel. You could hear her melodious voice on Sunday's singing her signature song "God Is." She was also a dedicated member in the Shiloh District Choir and the Northern Illinois State Choir. She used the gift God blessed her with and poured her passion for singing into so many down through the years. Deborah was a guiding light and helped countless youth! She was a nurturing and caring mother to all children, especially one of her sons, Kyle Williams. If they needed someone to help fight their battles or protect them, she was always willing, ready, and available. She had a special touch with the youth that would make you jump out of your seat. Just ask one of her favorite babies, (her words) Maurice McDowell. I mean she had Parker babies, Moore babies, Allen babies, Stokes babies, Minor babies, too many babies to name.
Deborah was a big supporter, encourager, and so thoughtful. She was wise and witty and kept you laughing. She was a DIVA and made sure you knew it! She would give you the clothes off her back, check on you, and pray for you. When God made Deborah, he knew she would touch many lives, and she DID! When Deborah was asked how she wanted to be remembered, Deborah responded "I love you and I'm rejoicing!"
Deborah was preceded in death by her parents, Nathaniel and Mary (Autman) Sims, and brother Charles Sims. Because of the huge heart Deborah had she was special to everyone, and everyone was special to her! We will never be able to put into words the amount of love that she had for each of you but know that you all had a special place in her heart!
She leaves to cherish her memories many loving brothers and sisters: Deacon Mark and Laura Allen and family, The Williams Family -Rev. Dr. Geneace Williams, Esq., Dr. Carline Williams Strong, Dr. Levonne Williams, Evangelist Kay Williams Sandu (a dedicated care giver) and Dr. Constatine Sandu., The Parker Family - Pat Vann, Rodney and Druel Parker, The Perry and Stokes Families. All of her Holy Temple Family; God Children: Darlene May, Kyle Williams, Mark Allen, Jr.; God Brothers: Autry Perry, Jr., Mark Allen, Arthur Allen; Deacon Kentric Waddell (a devoted caregiver) and a host of friends and family that will hold her memories.
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