Robert James Sims

Robert "Sonny" Sims, 89, a beloved pillar of his community, passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at his residence on McAllister Road in Aberdeen, MS. Born on March 25, 1936, in the same town, Robert was a man whose life was a testament to hard work, generosity, and the joy of simple pleasures.

A former employee of True Temper for 34 years, Robert embodied dedication and commitment. He worked diligently, rising with the sun to till the fields and then laboring through eight-hour shifts, balancing his responsibilities with the relentless energy that characterized his life. He often joked about being a “busy man” and lived up to that label wholeheartedly. Along with farming, he had a passion for hunting and fishing, activities that allowed him to forge many cherished friendships throughout his life.

In addition to his demanding work life, Robert was also an athlete, recalling fond memories of playing baseball and basketball. His enthusiasm extended beyond just playing, as he took on the role of a coach for a community traveling baseball team, sharing his love of the game with younger generations.

Robert was deeply loved for his kind spirit and selflessness. His favorite adage, "if I got it, you could get it," reflected his belief in giving without expectation. He was known in his community for his generous heart, always reaching out to help others. Robert had an unforgettable talent for cooking, ensuring that whenever family or friends visited, a meal crafted with love would be on the table. Even in the face of illness, he was proactive, providing his personal cook, CJ, with specific instructions to ensure that his guests were treated to his culinary delights.

Family was paramount to Robert. He is survived by his sons, Larry Sims (Carmella) of Prairie, MS, and Ronald Sims (Sonya) of Hazlehurst, MS; his daughter, Bridget Hall (Thomas) of Huntsville, AL; his sister, Daisy Jones of Toledo, OH; and a constellation of grandchildren—Carl Riddle, Sheene"Thedford(Fitzgerald), Charlie J. Smith, Jr. (CJ), Ronald Byron Sims (Jessich}, Brionna Harvey, and Jordan Kyle Smith. His legacy will continue through his three great-grandchildren: Sydnee Bryant, Mason Kyle Smith, and Ryder Sims. He cherished his sisters-in-law, Jean Sims, Annette Sims, Lois Sims, and Geneva Randle, along with a multitude of nieces, nephews, and cousins who all loved him dearly.

Robert is preceded in death by his father, William Sims; his mother, Lillie Crump Sims; his beloved wife, Oteria Sims:;one daughter, Stephanie Smith,  one grandchild, Victoria Gail Sims.10 of his siblings; Doris Barnett, Harry Sims, Lorenzo Sims, Carl Sims, Emma Jean Ward, Marian Eileen Hogan, Lois Johnson, Lillian Sims, Melvin Sims and  Willa Dean Essex.

To family and friends who cherished Robert, his warmth, wisdom, and storytelling will be profoundly missed. A viewing will take place on July 26, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM, followed by a funeral service from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM at Belle Memorial Funeral Home in Aberdeen, MS. As we gather to honor a life well-lived, we remember a man who gave so much of himself to others and whose spirit will forever remain alive in our hearts.