Harold Herchiel "Herk" Sims Jr.

1940 - 2025

Harold Herchiel "Herk" Sims, Jr., 84, of Kiawah Island, SC, passed away on Tuesday, October 28th, 2025 surrounded by his family.

Born in Charleston, West Virginia, on December 20th, 1940, Herk lived a life defined by faith, family, and service. He graduated from Charleston High School in 1958 and later graduated from Davidson College in 1962 as a member of Kappa Alpha Order.

Herk was a respected leader in both the business and civic communities. He carried forward his family's legacy through his leadership at Employers Service Corporation, later guiding the organization through its transitions to Accordia and beyond. His steady hand, wisdom, and people-first approach earned the respect of all who worked with him.

Deeply committed to community growth and education, Herk served as President of the Rotary Club of Charleston (1981-1982) and was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow by Rotary International. He was active in the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce, serving as board chair for 2 years and was one of the founders of The Education Alliance. After moving to Kiawah Island, SC he served as a member of the Exchange Club of Seabrook. Through these, and many other civic organizations, in both Charleston, S.C and Charleston, W.V., he championed economic opportunity and his belief in the power of education to transform lives.

From 1993 to 2002, Herk served on the Board of Trustees of the University of Charleston, helping to shape its growth and vision. A devoted supporter of the arts, he also played a leadership role in the "Growing to Greatness" endowment campaign for the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra, ensuring that music would continue to enrich the lives of future generations.

Herk's faith anchored his life. He was a longtime member of First Presbyterian Church in Charleston, West Virginia, where he worshipped and served with humility and joy. In his youth he earned the rank of Eagle Scout, learning from an early age the importance of servant leadership. Herk's closest friendships were nurtured around tables, in fellowship halls, among church classes, community groups, and circles of friends of all ages who remained close throughout the decades.

Herk was preceded in death by his parents, Harold H Sims, Sr & Elizabeth Thomas Daugherty Sims, and his sister, Betty Sims Damewood.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sherry Ann Sylvester Sims, his two children; Kirsten Sims Dean (Bob) of Laurinburg, NC, and Bradford Lewis "Brad" Sims (Angela) of Charleston, WV and grandchildren, Zoey and Shepherd Sims and Jennings Dean, along with a host of loving nieces, nephews, countless extended family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at John's Island Presbyterian Church on Friday, November 7th, 2025 at 11:00 am. The family will greet friends at a reception following the service.

Arrangements are being handled by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., West Ashley Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider a gift to the Greater Kanawah Valley Foundation 178 Summers St., Charleston, WV 25301 or Johns Island Presbyterian Church 2550 Bohicket Rd., Johns Island, SC 29455 or the charity of your choice.

A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.