Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Sharon Simms Obituary
died peacefully on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at the age of 81. She was predeceased by her husband of nearly 50 years, George R. Simms Jr., and son, William R. "Rusty" Johnson III (Patricia), and is survived by children, Robinn O. Johnson (Paivi), Tami R. Simms (Shawn), Marcia Martin, Judy Simms, and Sherry Simms; and grandchildren, Mariah Sturtevant and Matthew Johnson. A practicing Realtor® since 1986, Sharon was recognized as an industry leader, mentor, and inspiration to many across the globe. She was named one of the top 100 most influential women in real estate in 2008 and was recognized as one of the top ten women bloggers in the industry at that time. She was an active member of many industry associations and held a veritable alphabet of certifications and designations. She was recognized with the Laurie Moore-Moore Lifetime Achievement award from the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, and was just recently awarded Chairman Emeritus by Coastal Properties Group International. Originally from Newport, Rhode Island, in her life before real estate Sharon was a financial advisor, oil company executive, teacher, innkeeper, and was in hotel sales in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. She was a graduate of Salve Regina College (now University) and did post-graduate work at the University of California (Berkeley), the University of Wisconsin, and Middle Tennessee State University. Her involvement in the community over the years included service to the Florida International Museum, the St. Petersburg International Relations Committee, the Tampa Bay Council for International Visitors, The Tampa Bay International Trade Council, and the Tampa Bay Area Committee on Foreign Relations. She was a member of the St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club's Salty Sisters, the Academy of Senior Professionals at Eckerd College (ASPEC), and Welcome Tampa Bay International. She was an avid mahjongg player and voracious reader, and was adored by many, many friends and neighbors. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 25 from 11 am until 2 pm at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club.
View Guest Book www.tampabay.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Sharon Simms
Linda Moore
August 20, 2025
I'm so sorry that Sharon has passed away. I just found out today. I got to spend some time with Sharon and Tami at some conferences. Sharon was highly respected and loved by many. She is and will be missed. My condolences to her family and friends.
Christine Ward
May 22, 2025
Sharon was one of the first people that we met when we first moved to Florida, she became a good friend. RIP Sharon
Deby Cassill
May 15, 2025
I became a Sharon Simms fan after attending her every-Thursday-8:30am coffee/chat sessions on the 28th floor. I once asked her about her best and worst real estate commission. She proceeded to tell me the details of someone who had listed his $4 M property with her. After an angry call from the owner who created drama out of thin air, she sweetly cancelled his contract. "How could you give up that kind of commission?" I asked. Sharon smiled and said, "My philosophy always was, work oughta be fun." She looked at me and just shrugged, "He was not going to be fun. End of contract." Yah gotta love Sharon for that heartfelt philosophy. I sure do.
Sherry Simms
May 10, 2025
What I will always remember about Sharon/Mom II is the enthusiasm she showed for everything she did. From learning many languages (and encouraging me to learn one), from enjoying family/friend tea parties, to learning about whatever interested any of us "kids", etc. She was always encouraging us all to know more and do more. As my stepmom she was great. We had many one on one conversations about whatever needed to be talked through. Her advise was wise and well-received. I'm sad that I didn't have the time or means to visit when life got busy. I miss all those past good times and I will miss her.
Roni Flynn
May 9, 2025
So many memories of fun times with Sharon, especially travel, Mah jongg, canasta, luncheons and happy hours. She was a force of nature and I'll miss her.
Roni Flynn
Laura Bryant
May 8, 2025
The sad passing of a true icon. Sharon will live on in our collective memory. Robb and Tami, our hearts grieve with you but we will always hold a place in our hearts for Sharon.
Nancy Riley
May 8, 2025
Sharon and I worked together, were on committees together and played together. She live an exciting life and left a positive mark in the industry and community. Job well done Sharon. RIP
Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results
Make a Donation
in Sharon Simms's name
Memorial Events
for Sharon Simms
How to support Sharon's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Sharon Simms's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
