John “Mark” Sims, age 68, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025—surrounded by the love of his family.
Born in St. Petersburg, Florida, he moved to Southside, Alabama in 1989, where he raised his family, created a home, and became a longtime resident and cherished member of the community. In 2022, after retirement, he relocated to a lake home in Delta, Alabama with his wife.
Mark worked for many years in both uniform and food service sales. He found joy in building relationships with his many customers and coworkers over the years.
In his spare time, he cultivated his vegetable gardening skills and took great pride in sharing his annual tomato harvest with neighbors and friends. He spent countless hours outdoors—hunting, fishing, and enjoying the company of his dear friends at various hunting clubs. He loved coaching softball for his daughters and community. He was a lifelong music lover. Mark had a contagious laugh, a unique sense of humor, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. A talented home cook, he filled his home each holiday with family—drawn in by the warm, familiar smells of his perfected recipes. He had a special bond with animals and welcomed many treasured pets into his life. His love of nature, country, and people defined the way he lived.
In 1978, Mark married the love of his life and best friend, Lois Sims. Together, they shared 47 years of marriage filled with laughter, beautiful memories, and enduring love. They built a life side by side, raising two daughters, Kellie and Jamie Sims. Even in his final moments, Mark expressed his deep love and gratitude for his devoted wife and daughters.
He is survived by his wife, Lois Ann Sims; his daughters, Kellie and Jamie Sims; his brother, John Leslie Sims Jr.; and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and close family friends—many of whom he lovingly called “brother.”
He is preceded in death by his father, John L. Sims Sr.; his mother, Juanita Maxine Sims; his sister, Kim Valentine; step-brother, Stewart Montgomery as well as many other treasured family members and cherished pets.
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A Celebration of Life will be held on May 31, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Center West Missionary Baptist Church, 1421 CO Rd 313, Delta, AL 36258.
We invite all who knew and loved Mark to join in honoring his memory. In his spirit, the family encourages you to do something kind in his honor—plant a tomato, talk to a new neighbor, or shake a veteran’s hand.
