Emmett Earl Sims

12/25/1931 - 10/24/2025

Emmett Earl Sims Sr. (December 25, 1931 – October 24, 2025), age 93, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, October 24, 2025. Born on Christmas Day in 1931 in Woodbury, Georgia, Emmett was the beloved son of William Roy Sims and Mabelyn Strickland Sims. He grew up on a 78-acre farm, where his deep love for the land took root and remained with him throughout his life.
A standout student and athlete at Woodbury High School, Emmett's talents led him to Berry College in Rome, Georgia. There, he continued to shine-running track, serving as class president, and ultimately being elected Student Body President. It was at Berry that he met the love of his life, Opal Poss. Upon graduation, they married and shared seventy beautiful years together.
Emmett's professional journey took him from the fields of Georgia to the heart of Alabama, where he built a remarkable career in sales and management. His work led him through Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, and Huntsville, where he forged lasting relationships, including time spent with legendary coach Bear Bryant. He also served as president of the North Alabama Restaurant Association, leaving a legacy of leadership and excellence.
Yet, Emmett's greatest devotion was not to his career, but to his faith and family. A steadfast follower of Jesus Christ, Emmett lived his life with purpose and humility. His wife Opal and their two sons were his pride and joy, and he remained a loving provider and protector until his final days.
Emmett is survived by his cherished wife Opal; his son and daughter-in-law, Earl and Kelley; three grandchildren, Korey, Kyle, and Kambria; and five great-grandchildren: Carolina, Daniel, William, Carson, and Cameron who carry forward his legacy.
Though Emmett left the farm to pursue education and build a life in the city, his heart never strayed far from the outdoors. He returned to the farm in Georgia whenever he could, and even into his nineties, he refused to hand over the care of his home to a lawn service. He found peace on his patio, surrounded by nature, until the very end.
Now, Emmett walks in heaven-no weeds to pull, no grass to trim, no leaves to rake. Just the eternal beauty of God's creation, and the reward of a life well-lived.