Vivian Sims-Jenkins

Vivian Dale Jenkins-Sims, a beacon of unwavering love and faith, departed from this world on August 13, 2025, and into the realm of eternal peace. Born on December 10, 1949, in the warm community of Hawthorne, FL, Vivian's journey through life has been a testament to her courage and her boundless capacity to care for others. Her final days were spent in Cleveland, OH, where she gently succumbed to dementia, surrounded by the love of her family.

Vivian's life was marked by the joy and pride she found in her family. She leaves behind a legacy through her children, Carmelita Lawrence, Rudolph U. Jenkins, Michael D. Jenkins, and the late Jettie P. Henderson and George L. (Kanita) Sims. Her grandchildren, Shuttera Lawrence, Sierra Lawrence, Janyell Harris, Jasany Jenkins, Najee Young, Alesha Harris, Troy Matthews, Destiny Hall, Michal Jenkins, Ekklesia Jenkins, Alvin Henderson, Miracle Sims and Tony Turner, will carry forward her spirit of generosity and compassion. The sparkle in her eyes will live on in her great-grandchildren, Austin Caldwell, Marquise Lawrence, A'Lay Henderson, and Najee Clay.

Vivian's siblings, Rosa Lee Carey, Patricia Bouie Hutchinson, Cherry (Myles) Bynum, Frances Rollins, Carolyn Wright, Henry Nichols, Bernard Nichols, Alfred Nichols, Devonne (Larry) Jordan, the late Sara A. Harris, Pastor Albert (Valencia) Mann, Charje Jenkins, Tess (Karl) Bassie, Ocurlest (Wanda) Alexander, and the late Craig C. and Bernardo Alexander, knew her as a pillar of strength and unconditional support within their close-knit circle.

A proud graduate of Lincoln High School, Vivian's professional journey was marked by her roles at the Jacob Sapirstein Campus Hebrew Academy of Cleveland and Oakwood Village Nursing. Her dedication to her work was paralleled only by her commitment to her spiritual life, which she embraced with a fervor that inspired all who knew her.

Vivian's interests were simple yet profound. She attended church regularly, not merely as a spectator but as a participant in the fellowship of believers. Her hands were always extended in help, and her heart was an open door to family and friends alike. Vacationing for Vivian was never about the destination, but about the joy of being with those she loved.

Described as loving, faith-filled, and courageous, Vivian embodied the very essence of these words. Her life was a masterclass in giving, not because she had much, but because she knew the power of sharing whatever she could offer. In the spirit of her selfless nature, let us recall the words of Maya Angelou, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Vivian made everyone feel cherished, valued, and loved.

As we bid farewell to Vivian Dale Jenkins-Sims, we are reminded that her journey was one of purpose and impact. Her light will continue to shine through the lives she touched, the care she gave, and the love she spread. Vivian's story is not one of an end but a beautiful reminder of what it means to live a life that uplifts and heals. Let us honor her memory by living out her legacy of love and by courageously pursuing our own paths with faith and love as our guiding stars.